The Hawaiian Gardens City Council on June 25 discussed proposed consolidations and potential school closures at ABC Unified School District that include Ferguson Elementary and urged local advocacy to keep the school open.

Council Member Vargas requested the item for council consideration and emphasized Ferguson Elementary’s place “in the heart of our community,” its historical importance and concern about impacts on local families if the school closes. Vargas noted prior investments intended for Ferguson’s sports field renovation and a $1 million donation referenced during the meeting and said she would seek clarification from the superintendent’s office about the scope and timing of school renovations.

City staff clarified that decisions about school closures are within the school board’s jurisdiction, not the city’s. Mayor Pro Tem Maria Teresa del Rio provided a written statement read into the record apologizing for her absence and urging that “closing of any school should be the very last resort” and calling for collaborative efforts to increase enrollment and programs.

Speakers at the meeting and members of the public recommended several civic actions the council could take to support the school, including offering city facilities (for example, gym or meeting space) for parent organizing, opening city events for Ferguson volunteers to tabling and outreach (such as a local car show), and maintaining engagement with the superintendent’s office. Resident Sylvester Vasquez, who identified himself as a long‑time resident, urged more parental involvement and creative programming to boost enrollment, saying, “There is a solution to it.”

Council members expressed strong support for aiding community efforts but repeatedly noted the council has no vote on school closures and that ultimately the school board must act. No formal council motion or resolution regarding the closures was made; the item was for discussion only. Council members said they would continue engagement with ABC Unified School District representatives and support community organizing to seek alternatives to closure.