Superintendent signals early review of elementary magnet structure amid transportation and equity concerns

Superintendent Dr. Mitchell told the board the division is beginning an information-gathering review of elementary magnet programming to address transportation challenges, equity concerns and a shortage of bus drivers. "We have hired an external consulting firm to conduct an efficiency study," the superintendent said, adding that "no final decisions have been announced."

The superintendent described factors prompting the review — long student travel times, bus-driver shortages, zoning and concerns that some students cannot attend a single neighborhood elementary for K–5 — and emphasized outreach to families, staff and community partners. The division said it has issued a request for proposals for consultants and will hold focus groups and community input sessions as part of a transparent process.

Members of the public urged the board to preserve magnet programs. Katie Carter, a parent and practicing family-law attorney, called potential changes "a sincere tragedy" and said magnet programs provide specialized instruction and choices that have benefited many students. The superintendent clarified that magnet schools will remain "as they are for the 2026–27 school year" and that the RFP process is in an early stage.

Next steps include community engagement, data review on transportation and zoning, and return of findings to the board at future meetings.