Hundreds turn out to oppose Lincoln repurposing; residents press board for delay and transparency

Hundreds of residents and dozens of public commenters filled the board chamber Oct. 20 to urge the Lakewood Board of Education to pause its plan to repurpose Lincoln Elementary into a centralized early‑learning center.

Speakers across the two‑hour public‑comment period said they value early learning but object to closing a neighborhood elementary and questioned whether Lincoln’s layout and location are suitable for preschoolers. ‘‘Most preschoolers don’t eat lunch at school and those that do typically eat in their classrooms,’’ said Erin Brady, an early‑childhood educator who asked the board to explain how a three‑story elementary would accommodate young children and children with disabilities.

Several residents raised safety and walkability concerns. ‘‘Lincoln is 1.8 miles from Hays... How are we expecting these families to be able to get their kids to preschool?’’ said Rachel Farquhar, noting many families lack daytime access to a car and warning that added driving could increase traffic at remaining schools.

Multiple speakers with special‑education experience said neighborhood placements matter for routine and stability. A parent told the board her child’s speech and social gains came from being in a neighborhood school: ‘‘That is the power of a neighborhood elementary school,’’ she said, urging the board not to remove the supports that benefited her son.

Children from Lincoln also spoke. ‘‘I love Lincoln so much, and I don't want it to be a preschool,’’ said Evie, a fifth grader, describing stairs and playgrounds she said were ill‑suited for very young children.

Opponents repeatedly asked the board to consider reversible options first, including redistricting and expanded marketing, saying there was no immediate fiscal emergency. ‘‘If there is doubt, and there is, then we cannot move forward,’’ said Kyle Robinson, who urged the board to seek community buy‑in before irreversible steps.

Not all speakers opposed the recommendation. Task‑force members and other parents defended the work of the district committees and said the recommendation reflects a broad, yearlong review; Birch Browning, a task‑force member, said the repurposing could ultimately benefit the community if handled carefully.

Several commenters also raised concerns about process and transparency, alleging the community had insufficient time to review new materials and asking for additional public meetings, more detailed cost estimates and redistricting maps before any implementation begins. One speaker urged the district to oppose pending state legislation (House Bill 486), linking curriculum policy to local school priorities.

The public comment period concluded; board members discussed the superintendent’s recommendation and then voted to adopt it. The meeting record shows vocal public opposition and numerous specific requests for further data and community meetings; residents said they expect follow‑up from the district and will hold the board accountable in upcoming meetings and elections.

The board adjourned after passing the resolution. Community members asked for prompt publication of redistricting maps, a line‑item transition cost estimate, and detailed plans for transportation and child‑care partnerships.