Ketchikan School Board faces backlash over Point Higgins Elementary closure plan

Concerns over a proposed school closure dominated the Ketchikan Gateway Borough School Board meeting on February 12, 2025, as community members voiced their frustrations over a hastily crafted restructuring plan. The plan aims to close Point Higgins Elementary, which currently serves 205 students, prompting fears of negative impacts on education quality and community trust.

One parent expressed disappointment, stating, “What we actually got was a horrible restructuring plan,” criticizing the lack of collaborative discussions with stakeholders. The parent emphasized the need for work sessions that foster idea-sharing rather than the current approach, which they described as a “wall” between the board and the community.

The emotional toll on students was a significant concern, with calls for the board to consider the trauma that closures could inflict on young learners. “Our kids are more than dollar signs,” the parent remarked, urging the board to prioritize student well-being over budgetary concerns.

Financial implications were also highlighted, with estimates suggesting that up to 20% of the student body might transition to homeschooling if the school closes, potentially leading to further revenue loss for the district. The parent questioned the board’s budgeting priorities, pointing out that funds allocated for staff travel could instead support student activities.

The meeting underscored a broader call for accountability and transparency in district management. The parent urged the board to address what they termed “mismanagement” and to take control of the district’s finances, stating, “You have broken the trust of the community, and you have a very long way to go to earn it back.”

As the board moves forward, the community is left grappling with the implications of these decisions, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and thoughtful approach to educational planning.