School administrators say a draft version of a school facilities report â which recommends closing four elementary schools and merging two high schools to address declining enrollment and $150 million-plus in deferred maintenance and other costs â isnât the final word on the issue.
A draft copy of the school facilities audit, prepared by MGT Consulting Group, suggests closing the Hallsville, Gossler Park, Smyth and Wilson elementary schools.
Other recommendations include merging Manchester School of Technology (MST) and Manchester Memorial High School, and moving Manchester High School West students to Central High School temporarily so West can be renovated.
The recommendations are being made to address years of declining enrollment and so-called âempty seatsâ in local schools, which MGT estimates will cost the Manchester School District (MSD) $1.9 million this fiscal year.