Louisville, Kentucky, November 25, 2025
Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) has proposed the closure or consolidation of five schools for the upcoming school year due to a $188 million budget deficit. The schools affected include Zachary Taylor Elementary and Liberty High School among others. This move aims to cut operational costs by approximately $4 million annually and improve educational efficiency. The district plans to engage with the community through forums for feedback before the Board of Education votes on these changes.
Louisville, Kentucky: JCPS Proposes School Closures and Consolidations Amid Budget Deficit
Louisville, Kentucky – Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) has announced plans to close or consolidate five schools in the 2026–27 school year to address a $188 million budget deficit. The proposed changes aim to reduce operational costs and improve educational efficiency.
Proposed School Closures and Consolidations
- Zachary Taylor Elementary School: Proposed for closure due to enrollment below 50% capacity and high per-student costs.
- Liberty High School: Proposed for closure as its credit recovery programs are now available at other JCPS schools.
- Waller-Williams Environmental School: Proposed for relocation to a facility in Fairdale, citing low capacity (39%) and high per-student costs ($111,000).
- King Elementary School: Proposed for consolidation into Maupin Elementary School, with King operating well below capacity and costing significantly more per pupil than the JCPS average.
- Georgia Chaffee Teenage Parent Program: Proposed for relocation from a facility that is currently only around one-fifth full.
Financial Implications
These proposals are expected to save JCPS approximately $4 million annually. The district is also considering eliminating certain central office positions and scaling back or eliminating specific programs to further address the budget shortfall.
Community Engagement and Next Steps
JCPS has scheduled three community forums to gather feedback on the proposed changes:
- Forum 1: Monday, Dec. 1, 5–6 p.m. at Kammerer Middle School, 7315 Westboro Road
- Forum 2: Tuesday, Dec. 2, 5–6 p.m. at the JCPS Center for Professional Learning, 3903 Atkinson Square Dr.
- Forum 3: Wednesday, Dec. 3, 5–6 p.m. at Academy @ Shawnee, 4001 Herman St.
The Jefferson County Board of Education is scheduled to vote on the proposed closures and consolidations at its Dec. 9 meeting. The district encourages families and staff to attend these forums or submit written comments through the Proposed Facility Changes Form to share their feedback and concerns.
Background Context
JCPS has been facing significant financial challenges, with a $188 million budget deficit impacting its operations. In response, the district has been exploring various measures to balance the budget, including potential school closures and consolidations. The Facility Profile Index, which evaluates buildings based on condition, operating cost, and enrollment, has been instrumental in identifying schools for potential closure or consolidation. The district emphasizes the importance of community involvement in these decisions to ensure the best outcomes for students and staff.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What schools are proposed for closure or consolidation by JCPS?
What schools are proposed for closure or consolidation by JCPS?
The proposed changes include the closure of Zachary Taylor Elementary School and Liberty High School, the relocation of Waller-Williams Environmental School, the consolidation of King Elementary School into Maupin Elementary School, and the relocation of the Georgia Chaffee Teenage Parent Program.
How much is JCPS expected to save annually from these proposals?
How much is JCPS expected to save annually from these proposals?
The proposed closures and consolidations are expected to save JCPS approximately $4 million annually.
When and where are the community forums scheduled?
When and where are the community forums scheduled?
The community forums are scheduled as follows:
- Forum 1: Monday, Dec. 1, 5–6 p.m. at Kammerer Middle School, 7315 Westboro Road
- Forum 2: Tuesday, Dec. 2, 5–6 p.m. at the JCPS Center for Professional Learning, 3903 Atkinson Square Dr.
- Forum 3: Wednesday, Dec. 3, 5–6 p.m. at Academy @ Shawnee, 4001 Herman St.
When will the Jefferson County Board of Education vote on the proposed changes?
When will the Jefferson County Board of Education vote on the proposed changes?
The Jefferson County Board of Education is scheduled to vote on the proposed closures and consolidations at its Dec. 9 meeting.
How can families and staff provide feedback on the proposed changes?
How can families and staff provide feedback on the proposed changes?
Families and staff can attend the community forums or submit written comments through the Proposed Facility Changes Form to share their feedback and concerns.
Key Features of the Proposed Changes
| Proposed Change | Details |
|---|---|
| Zachary Taylor Elementary School | Proposed for closure due to low enrollment and high per-student costs. |
| Liberty High School | Proposed for closure as its credit recovery programs are now available at other JCPS schools. |
| Waller-Williams Environmental School | Proposed for relocation to a facility in Fairdale, citing low capacity and high per-student costs. |
| King Elementary School | Proposed for consolidation into Maupin Elementary School, with King operating well below capacity and costing significantly more per pupil than the JCPS average. |
| Georgia Chaffee Teenage Parent Program | Proposed for relocation from a facility that is currently only around one-fifth full. |
| Expected Annual Savings | Approximately $4 million. |
| Community Forums | Scheduled for Dec. 1, Dec. 2, and Dec. 3 at various locations. |
| Board Vote | Scheduled for Dec. 9 meeting. |
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