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Madina board approves grade-level reconfiguration to K–4, 5–6 and 7–8, cites $1.5 million projected savings
Summary
After discussion about enrollment declines and financial pressures, the board approved a resolution to reconfigure grade levels effective 2027–28: elementary K–4; AI route 5–6; Claget 7–8, and authorized the superintendent to implement a transition plan aimed at preserving programming while managing staffing primarily through attrition.
The Madina City Schools board voted to reconfigure grade levels across the district and directed the superintendent to implement a transition plan to take effect in the 2027–28 school year.
The adopted resolution cites sustained enrollment declines, ongoing financial pressures, and capacity studies indicating the proposed configuration is feasible for district buildings. Under the approved plan, elementary schools will serve kindergarten through fourth grade, AI route will serve grades five and six, and Claget will serve grades seven and eight. The board and administration said the change is expected to yield projected net annual savings of approximately $1.5 million and to extend the timeline between future levy requests.
Board members discussed the educational and developmental considerations of grouping students by narrower grade bands, and several members said surrounding districts that have adopted similar models reported positive outcomes. One board member described the decision as balancing two duties: advocating first for students and second for efficient stewardship of taxpayer funds.
The resolution authorizes the superintendent to develop a comprehensive transition plan covering staffing, transportation, programming, facility adjustments and community engagement, emphasizing use of attrition to manage staff changes when possible. The motion passed on a roll-call vote with all present members in favor.
Board members said they do not take structural changes lightly and pledged to prioritize student experience and community communication as the district moves into planning and engagement phases.
