Dec. 2, 2025 – Following months of discussion and community input, the School Board approved two school consolidations, both scheduled for later dates than originally proposed.
Long Branch Elementary will consolidate into R.L. Brown Academy in 2027–28.
Anchor Elementary will consolidate into Mayport Elementary in 2028–29.
Both schools were initially recommended for consolidation in 2026–27 due to under-enrollment. Board members discussed extending the timeline to allow for additional community input and to explore potential public–private partnerships and federal grants that could help boost enrollment and funding.
“Nationwide, school districts are grappling with decisions to close traditional public schools as they face declining enrollment and budget challenges,” said Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier. “While I believe we have to be student-centered and financially responsible, we are also deeply empathetic to the concerns of the community, who have personal and generational ties to the schools.”
While the schools discussed on Monday will not consolidate in 2026–27, four previously approved consolidations will move forward next school year:
Don Brewer Elementary will consolidate into Merrill Road Elementary.
George Washington Carver will consolidate into Rufus E. Payne Elementary.
Hyde Grove Elementary will consolidate into Hyde Park Elementary.
Hidden Oaks Elementary will consolidate into Cedar Hills.
In addition, the Board approved updates to several high school boundaries for the 2027–28 school year and the transition of John E. Ford to a dedicated magnet school beginning in 2026–27.