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COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- A tense meeting Wednesday night as officials decide the future of several schools in District 11.

It was a packed house inside the D-11 Administration building.

Wasson High School, Mann Middle School and several elementary schools are on the chopping block for budgetary reasons.

After a vote of six to one board members decided to close Wasson and Lincoln and Bates Elementary Schools.

At one point during Wednesday's meeting, some board members were getting chocked up talking about the decision and harsh criticism the board has received.

Another board member wanted to postpone the vote until Feb. 27.

However, he was the only one that felt that way.

Even Goose Gossage, who attended Wasson High in the early 70s attended tonight's meeting.

He spoke on behalf of Wasson and why it should remain.

Board members said, they just want to do what's best for students and tax payers.

Some folks stormed out of the meeting upset during public comment.

If Wasson were to close, D-11 would integrate the students into Coronado, Doherty, Mitchell and Palmer.

Officials say, they high school doesn't enroll sufficient students.

the district will be able to provide a variety of classes and programs for all students.

As for Wasson's building, it wouldn't be left vacant.

Several of D-11's alternative schools and programs would move in.

Statement from Dr. Nicholas M. Gledich, Superintendent of Schools

Tonight the School District 11 Board of Education voted on the recommendations brought forward by staff as a result of the Optimization of Utilization Plan.  The final vote this evening was in favor of the following:

• Consolidate from five to four comprehensive high schools, close Wasson High School and integrate students into Coronado, Doherty, Mitchell, and Palmer.
• Open an Early College, Career, and Alternative Education Center at the Wasson location; consolidate current alternative, career pathway, and adult and family education programs.
  • This consideration provides a single location for D11 alternative programs: Tesla, Bijou, Night School, Digital, Achieve K-12, Homebound and Home School, Adult and Family Education, and Career Pathway programs (including auto, hospitality, medical, and ProStart).
•    Resolve the Monroe Elementary School detached boundary. There is no impact on students.
•    Close Bates Elementary School and Lincoln Elementary School; integrate students into Jackson, Edison, Audubon, and Fremont Elementary School

As a result of this vote, many District 11 students, families, and employees will face some significant change next school year.  During the Board’s comments tonight, board members remarked on what a difficult challenge it is to close schools, but that they have to be wise stewards of taxpayer funds, while also working to ensure District 11 provides the best quality education for all students.  I echo their thoughts tonight, as this has been one of the most difficult processes I’ve ever had to consider as a superintendent.

Board members also discussed the Optimization of Utilization procedure that was used to gather public input, and remarked on the inclusivity and opportunity given for public feedback.  Both the Board of Education and I are grateful for all of the community members who took the time to give us feedback and ask questions during this process.  The feedback was used as part of the criteria to form the recommendations and will be incorporated in how we will move forward to implement the plan and address needs.  Thank you for your help in that process, it was very valuable to both the Board and me.

In light of the vote this evening, I know the coming months may be filled with many questions from our D11 families as to what happens next.  I have directed all district staff to work closely together over the next few months to communicate needs and ideas, ensuring a smooth transition for all impacted students and families.  Through diligent attention to details, sensitivity to those impacted by changes, and effort to prepare students for a world yet to be imagined, I know District 11 will become even stronger and continue to provide the highest quality education to all students.