Mesa Public Schools Plans to Reduce 77 Portables to Save Over $1M Annually

Mesa Public Schools is set to undergo significant changes as the district plans to demolish 77 portable classrooms over the next fiscal year, equating to nearly 150,000 square feet of building space. This initiative, discussed during the Governing Board Study Session and Regular Board Meeting on August 28, 2025, aims to address declining student enrollment while optimizing the use of taxpayer dollars.

Executive Director of Operations and Maintenance, Mike Kramer, highlighted the district's strategic shift from maintaining portables to reducing building square footage in response to changing demographics. The decision comes as Mesa Public Schools has seen a notable decline in student enrollment since the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting a reevaluation of facility needs.

The removal of these portables is expected to yield substantial cost savings, estimated at $1.1 million annually. This figure accounts for reduced utility costs and maintenance expenses associated with keeping the aging portable structures operational. The district anticipates that by 2027, approximately 104 portables will be removed, resulting in ongoing savings of nearly $1.5 million each year.

Kramer emphasized the unique position of Mesa Public Schools, stating that no other district in Arizona has the capacity to reduce square footage without impacting brick-and-mortar buildings. The plan includes a phased approach, with the first cohort already underway, having completed the demolition of six portables this year.

In addition to the financial benefits, the initiative aims to enhance safety and aesthetics on school campuses. Principals have reported improved visibility and a sense of community as a result of the changes. The district is also exploring the potential for repurposing administrative spaces and consolidating transportation yards to further streamline operations.

As the district moves forward, it remains committed to ensuring that educational programs are not disrupted during the transition. Input from school principals has been integral to the planning process, ensuring that the needs of students and staff are prioritized.

The Mesa Public Schools board is optimistic about the future, with plans to continue evaluating enrollment trends and adjusting strategies accordingly. This proactive approach aims to maintain the quality of education while effectively managing resources in a changing educational landscape.