How to talk to our kids about school closures and consolidations
The district is considering closing 20 of the 73 elementary schools in Seattle.  We don't yet know which schools will be closed, but we should have more clarity in Fall of 2024.  (For more information, see the Fund SPS page.)

Please use care when discussing this situation with our children.  We recommend the following tips:

• Limit how and when you talk about possible closures.  We don’t want to scare kids.  Limit how much you talk about this issue in front of your kids and keep in mind that they may be listening when you’re speaking to other adults.
• Give context when initially informing your kids (if you choose to). For younger students, you may decide to hold off on telling them anything.  Older students will likely hear the news from friends or other adults.  Let them know that changes may be coming to Seattle Public Schools and that some schools may close before the 2025-26 school year.  Let them know that we won’t know for sure which schools will close until December.  Reassure them that nothing is changing at North Beach for the coming school year.
• Honor feelings, let kids lead.  Ask how they’re feeling about the news.  Keep in mind that kids will likely follow your lead.  If they see that you’re very stressed and upset about this (which is a completely normal response), they will be, too.  Try to regulate your emotions in front of your kids.  This doesn’t mean you can’t be honest with them, but try to convey your feelings in a calm way.
• For older students, share facts and timelines and acknowledge how it can be difficult to manage uncertainty.
• Emphasize that they will be okay.  Kids need to hear that whatever the outcome, they will be safe and supported.  Whatever happens the community will support and advocate for one another and for our students.  We can do hard things, and we are resilient.  
• Ask students what they like about their community.  Share what you like.