Santa Rosa board reviews elementary reconfiguration proposals as parents press to keep neighborhood schools open

Santa Rosa City Schools staff presented a package of elementary reconfiguration options on Oct. 8 as part of a districtwide study session aimed at closing an estimated $10–$15 million shortfall. The plans include converting Helen Lehman and James Monroe into TK–3 primary campuses, using the Hilliard Comstock site as a 4–6 intermediate campus, and recommending the closure of Abraham Lincoln Elementary, while redistributing students from the closed Steele Lane site among nearby schools.

District officials said the proposals are intended to concentrate early literacy work, reduce combination classes and redistribute special‑education program classes that are currently concentrated at a small number of campuses. “Every decision right now is based in the fiscal impact,” Superintendent Emmanuel August told the board, framing the proposals as part of a wider fiscal stabilization effort.

The district presented enrollment and facility analysis showing approximately 1,700 students live in the area affected by Steele Lane’s closure; staff estimated average loads of roughly 620 students at the three receiving campuses under one scenario. Facilities staff told trustees that renovating Steel Lane comprehensively would be…