The Rogers School District presented findings from a high‑school task force that recommended keeping the district’s three high schools rather than consolidating campuses, and urged the board to adopt open‑enrollment policies and develop distinct “flagship” programs to attract students.
The task force — made up of principals, teachers, coaches, parents, community members and central office staff — told the board the three‑school model best preserves current strengths while allowing targeted supports where needed. Superintendent Dr. Perry summarized the committee’s view that each campus serves a distinct student population and that “unique opportunities” and added resources could help balance enrollment and improve program visibility.
Board members and task force participants said rezoning or forced consolidation risk losing students to neighboring districts or charter schools. The committee discussed five models — retain three schools with supports; create academy pathways inside schools; consolidate Rogers and Heritage into one high school; build an advanced academic 6–12 campus; or create a separate freshman academy — and reported a general preference for retaining and investing in the existing three‑school structure.
Task‑force members emphasized open enrollment so families already in the district can choose the campus they prefer rather than leaving the district. Presenters said open enrollment could increase mobility between the district’s high schools but noted building capacity limits and competitive athletics classifications will constrain outcomes. Board members asked whether an enrollment lottery or other limits would be needed; administrators said details remain to be worked out.
The district also proposed a near‑term focus on marketing and promoting strengths at each campus, expanding successful programs where demand exceeds capacity, and identifying specific resource needs through conversations with building principals and coaches. Superintendent Perry said district leaders will return with proposals to strengthen flagship programs, evaluate athletics support under the current model, and produce a marketing plan to position Rogers as a “school of choice.”
Board members asked about enrollment projections and demographics; administrators said the district has used in‑house forecasts and will consider hiring demography consultants and continue discussions with local realtors and the chamber of commerce about housing and growth trends. No formal structural change was approved at the meeting — the presentation was informational and the board directed staff to continue planning work and bring proposals back for future action.
The discussion noted tradeoffs: consolidation could boost athletic competitiveness but would create other challenges and transitions for students, while keeping three schools preserves local identity but requires targeted investment.
The board will receive follow‑up information, including recommended resource allocations and a marketing plan, at a later meeting.