Families and students urge board to halt plan that could close Vancouver Flex Academy; cite legal and safety concerns
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Summary
Dozens of students, parents and community members told the board Vancouver Flex Academy (Lehi) provides crucial supports for neurodivergent and high‑needs students and accused the district of failing to follow state school‑closure procedures and properly notify families; the board approved a districtwide resolution on reductions but did not take immediate action on any school closure.
Scores of current and former Vancouver Flex Academy students, parents and supporters told the Vancouver School Board at public comment that closing Flex (also referred to as Lehi Academy in testimony) would remove the district’s only comparable option for many neurodivergent, gender‑diverse and high‑needs students. Speakers described individual experiences of improved safety, mental‑health recovery and academic progress at Flex and urged the board to halt any closure steps, consult with affected families and consider phased approaches that would allow current students to graduate with their peers. Several commenters cited state law and board policies they say require public hearings and notice before a school closure.
