Parents in Sandy Springs are voicing concerns over proposed redistricting plans that could impact over 4,000 elementary students and potentially lead to the closure of Spalding Drive Elementary School.
The Fulton County School System cites declining enrollment and the condition of the 1966-built facility as reasons for the proposed closure.
Community Response: Spalding Drive Elementary Parent Teacher Organization President Lauren Rosenbaum disputes the district’s data. She claims the school has the greatest projected enrollment growth in the region. She argues that, based on the classroom allocation model, Spalding is at capacity.
Sandy Springs City Councilman Andy Bauman has expressed firm opposition to the closure, describing the decision as “rash” and based on “faulty facts and assumptions.” He criticizes the process as being driven by financial considerations rather than the best interests of students and families.
“I stand firmly against the closing of SDES. The decision seems rash, based on faulty facts and assumptions, and preordained with an all-too-fast ‘process’ managed by the school system. Even worse, the consideration seems based on dollars and cents, and not with the best interests of our students and families in mind,” Bauman said.
Policy Concerns: Parents are also troubled by a policy that excludes schools identified for redistricting from participating in the district’s Open Enrollment program. This policy could significantly limit school choice options for families in the area, forcing them to remain within the confines of their assigned neighborhoods, which may not align with their educational preferences or needs.
Upcoming Meetings: The Fulton County School Board has scheduled a community meeting on Dec. 9 to gather additional feedback from parents and stakeholders. A final vote on the redistricting maps and the potential closure of Spalding Drive Elementary is expected early next year.
What’s Next?: Parents and community members can attend the Dec. meeting to voice their opinions and stay informed about the decision-making process. The outcome of these discussions will significantly impact the educational landscape in Sandy Springs.
B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist with 25-years experience in journalism. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is the publisher of The Georgia Sun and a fifth-generation Georgian.
