USD 453 Board Votes to Close Nettie Hartnett Education Center in Kansas

The Leavenworth Board of Education made a significant decision during its meeting on August 11, 2025, by voting to close the Nettie Hartnett Education Center at the end of the 2024-2025 school year. This resolution was passed unanimously after a public hearing that yielded no community input against the closure.

The board's decision is rooted in Kansas law, which allows school districts to close buildings by majority vote. The board determined that closing the Nettie Hartnett Education Center would ultimately enhance the school system within Unified School District 453. This move reflects ongoing efforts to optimize resources and improve educational outcomes for students in the district.

In addition to the closure, the board discussed staffing matters, approving a staffing report that is expected to support the district's operational needs moving forward. The meeting also included a consent agenda, which was approved without any items being removed for further discussion.

As the district prepares for the upcoming school year, the closure of the Nettie Hartnett Education Center marks a pivotal change that will impact students and families in the community. The board's actions are part of a broader strategy to ensure that educational facilities are effectively utilized and aligned with the district's goals for improvement.