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Tri-campus reconfiguration: district survey favors two-school model serving pre-K–1 and 2–5; board to decide May 27
Summary
District staff reported survey results and a facilities analysis for the Diamond Springs/Newtown/Betty F. Williams tri-campus reconfiguration; parents and staff favored a two-school model split by developmental grade bands (pre-K–1 and 2–5).
District staff presented results of community outreach and a facilities analysis on May 13 for the planned reconfiguration of the Diamond Springs, Newtown and Betty F. Williams tri-campus zone.
Survey and meeting results: An online and in-meeting survey completed by 425 respondents showed parents of tri-campus students as the largest group of respondents. Option 2 — a plan that would convert one building to pre-K through first grade and the other to second through fifth grade — was preferred by tri-campus parents (62%), tri-campus staff (57%) and community members (58%). Respondents who chose Option 1 (two pre-K through fifth-grade schools) most frequently cited fewer transitions for students as their primary reason; Option 2 supporters most frequently cited the developmental needs of specific age groups.
Facilities and capacity: Executive Director of Facilities Melissa Ingram said both existing buildings were designed to accommodate the proposed grade arrangements and that either option is estimated to be cost neutral within the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) context, though additional space needs are forecast. Preliminary estimates show an additional 18–22 rooms required across the zone under either option; Option 2 would concentrate more space need at Newtown (the projected 2–5 site). The proposed additional space (CIP) was estimated at up to $25 million in the FY26 CIP discussion; administration said no trailers would be required under the preliminary estimate.
Zone reassignment and next steps: Either option will require reassignment of the attendance zone from three schools to two; the district will use a Board of Use and Community (BUC) process if boundary changes are required. Administration asked for direction and said the board will vote on the chosen model during the May 27 meeting. If the board selects Option 2, Newtown is likely to host grades 2–5 and Diamond Springs pre-K–1, with attendance-area adjustments to follow.
Ending: District leaders said more detailed enrollment work will follow a board decision; the May 27 vote will direct facilities planning and the FY26 CIP implementation.
