Louisville, Kentucky, December 2, 2025
To mitigate a significant budget shortfall of $188 million, Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) plans to close several schools and consolidate others. The proposal includes the closures of Zachary Taylor Elementary and Liberty High School, along with the consolidation of King Elementary into Maupin Elementary. Parent and community responses have been mixed, and a final vote by the JCPS Board of Education is scheduled for December 9, 2025.
Louisville, Kentucky
JCPS Addresses Budget Crisis with School Closures and Consolidations
In an effort to combat a projected $188 million budget shortfall, Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) Superintendent Dr. Brian Yearwood has introduced a proposal aimed at closing and consolidating several schools within the district. Among the significant changes proposed are the closures of Zachary Taylor Elementary and Liberty High School, along with the consolidation of King Elementary into Maupin Elementary. These steps aim to actualize savings of around $4 million, a mere 3% of the estimated deficit. This proposal is scheduled for a final vote by the JCPS Board of Education on December 9, 2025.
Details of the Proposed Changes
- Zachary Taylor Elementary Closure: The school has seen enrollment dip below 50% capacity. Students are expected to reapply for schools within the Ballard High School zone.
- Liberty High School Closure: Originally established for credit recovery, similar resources are now available across JCPS. Students would be redirected to their resident schools, complemented by Personal Learning Plans and social-emotional support.
- King Elementary Consolidation: This school, which currently operates at 70% capacity and incurs higher per-student costs, would merge with Maupin Elementary, which serves 53% of its capacity and offers lower costs.
- Waller-Williams Environmental Relocation: Operating at a low 39% capacity and a staggering per-student cost of about $111,000, this program would relocate to a facility in Fairdale more appropriate for its size.
- TAPP Relocation: With only 21% capacity, the Georgia Chaffee Teenage Parent Program will be moved to the Gheens Early Childhood Center located near Male High School for better efficiency.
Community Response and Next Steps
The community’s reaction to the proposal has been mixed. Some parents and stakeholders express concern over the implications of these changes on students and their families, while others understand the urgency of resolving the district’s financial issues. JCPS plans to host community forums to gather input and disseminate information regarding the proposed changes. The final decision rests with the JCPS Board of Education, slated for December 9, 2025.
Background Context
JCPS has been grappling with notable financial difficulties, including the substantial $188 million budget shortfall. The district has explored various strategies to manage this deficit, including school closures and consolidations, as part of a broader initiative to optimize resources and ensure the sustainability of educational offerings throughout the district.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What schools are proposed for closure or consolidation in the JCPS plan?
The proposal includes the closure of Zachary Taylor Elementary and Liberty High School, the consolidation of King Elementary into Maupin Elementary, and the relocation of Waller-Williams Environmental and the Georgia Chaffee Teenage Parent Program (TAPP).
When will the JCPS Board of Education vote on the proposed changes?
The final vote by the JCPS Board of Education is scheduled for December 9, 2025.
How can community members provide feedback on the proposed changes?
JCPS has scheduled community forums to gather feedback and provide information on the proposed changes.
What is the reason for the proposed school closures and consolidations?
The proposed changes aim to address a $188 million budget shortfall by optimizing resources and ensuring the sustainability of educational programs across the district.
When would the proposed changes take effect if approved?
The proposed changes are set to take effect in the 2026–27 school year.
Key Features of the JCPS School Closure and Consolidation Plan
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Proposed School Closures | Zachary Taylor Elementary and Liberty High School |
| Proposed Consolidation | King Elementary merging with Maupin Elementary |
| Proposed Relocations | Waller-Williams Environmental and TAPP moving to new facilities |
| Projected Savings | Approximately $4 million, about 3% of the projected $188 million deficit |
| Final Vote Date | December 9, 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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