With Bond Measure’s Passage, Salem-Keizer Board Hears Process to Ensure Additional Capacity Fully Utilized

Feeder system boundaries may be adjusted to anticipate growth

After the successful passage of the $619.7 million bond measure, Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) has begun planning for construction. In 2019, Gubser Elementary, Waldo Middle, Judson Middle, McNary High and North High will begin receiving significant capital construction. In order to utilize increased capacity and ensure the safe progression of construction, the Salem-Keizer Board of Directors reviewed the boundary change process at its July 24 meeting.

The boundary change process is being facilitated by FLO Analytics, a consulting firm with expertise in data analysis and experience in assisting school districts with boundary changes. FLO Analytics utilizes research and population forecasting from Portland State University to guide enrollment projections.

The boundary change process will take about eight months and will include public input sessions to collect parent and community feedback. The process will also include a Boundary Review Task Force that will vet an initial staff recommendation and prepare a report and recommendation to the School Board.

Boundary adjustments may be needed across every high school feeder system; however, comparatively small changes are predicted within the West Salem and McNary feeder systems. For example, changes to balance enrollments in some elementary and/or middle schools within the McNary and West Salem school progression may be needed, but changes to the high school boundaries are not expected.

The boundary adjustments also incorporate the construction of special education spaces at each of the district’s six traditional high schools.

SKPS will host a series of community meetings between September and December to gather feedback on the proposed boundary adjustments. The Board is expected to take action on boundary adjustments in February 2019 for implementation in the fall of 2019.

For more information about the boundary change process, please subscribe to the district’s Monday Minutes newsletter. You can subscribe by visiting www.salkeiz.k12.or.us homepage and scrolling to the bottom of the page to fill in an online form.