SLPS Special Administrative Board approves plan for school reconfigurations, building closures and school calendar
Changes to take effect at the start of the 2008-2009 school year (posted 3/11/08)

St. Louis—The Special Administrative Board of St. Louis Public Schools approved the facility and calendar recommendations submitted by Superintendent Diana Bourisaw at the March 10 board meeting. The approved plan calls for the reopening of one school and the closing of four facilities. Several elementary schools will be reconfigured to preschool through grades 5 or 6.

Facility changes slated to go into effect include:

• Lyon will consolidate with Blow to create a K-8 program
• Mitchell students will be reassigned to Hamilton and Ford
• Gundlach students will be reassigned to Ford, Lexington and Laclede
• Wilkinson Early Childhood Center will move into Roe
• Carver will reopen as an elementary school

Schools that will be reconfigured include:

• Henry, Mason, Shepard and Monroe will return to preschool through grade 6
• Hamilton and Oak Hill will return to preschool through grade 5
• Hodgen will expand to preschool through grade 6

“These new plans address the concerns voiced by our parents, students and community members,” Bourisaw said. “By improving our overall facility usage, we’ll have the opportunity to enhance our academic offerings while keeping our students in environments conducive to learning.”

The submitted 2008-09 academic calendar was also approved.

• The first day of school will continue to take place during the third week of August. In 2008-09, the first class day is August 18.
• Beginning next year, the regular school year will increase from 175 to 176 days. This increase is in line with similar school districts in the area.
• The calendar includes six built-in snow days; allows for school exams to take place before winter break; extends the winter break; and includes a heat advisory plan.

The district held several community forums during February and March. The superintendent took public comments into consideration before submitting her final recommendation to the board.