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Residents urge Menlo Park to formally oppose proposed closure of Tay Academy
Summary
Parents and residents urged the Menlo Park City Council to adopt a resolution opposing the Sequoia Union districtproposal to close Tay Academy, calling for full financial transparency, an equity analysis and alternatives before any closure decision.
Residents packed the public comment period at the Menlo Park City Council meeting to press the city to oppose a proposed closure of Tay Academy, a small alternative school serving students who do not fit in traditional classrooms.
Jennifer Plimmers, a Menlo Park resident who identified herself during public comment, said Tay serves students "who do not fit in the traditional environments" and warned the district had already discussed closing the school. "El cerrar TAE no es una decisión presupuestaria, sino de valores," Plimmers said, arguing the decision should weigh community values as well as numbers.
Parent Joy Sais asked the council to place a formal city resolution on a future agenda that would oppose any immediate closure. Sais asked that any such resolution include three concrete conditions before the district proceeds: full financial transparency about the decision, a detailed equity analysis and a multiyear strategy exploring alternatives to closure.
City officials acknowledged the council does not have authority to stop a district decision but said a formal city position could amplify community concerns before the school board. Councilmembers thanked speakers and agreed the councilwould consider next steps; public comments concluded without the council adopting a resolution at the meeting.
What happens next: Residents requested the council place a resolution on a future agenda; staff and councilmembers indicated they would consider the request and return with options for formal action or communication to the Sequoia Union district.
