District 65 Recommended Closing Two Elementary Schools
Interim Superintendent Eric Witherspoon has proposed the closure of two local elementary schools to address budget deficits.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Administration
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Do you support the proposed closure of elementary schools to address your local district budget deficit?
Interim Superintendent Eric Witherspoon has recommended closing Dewey Elementary School and Lincolnwood Elementary School in District 65. The proposal aims to stabilize the district's structural budget deficit through school closures and service cuts.
Why it matters
These measures represent an attempt to place the school district on a more sustainable financial path. The district is considering these staffing and facility changes to manage long-term fiscal challenges.
The district has proposed closing two elementary schools and plans to relinquish head start operations by July 1, 2028. Facilities for Dewey and Lincolnwood schools will be retained rather than sold, and the district may pursue a future tax referendum.
The players
Eric Witherspoon
He is the current interim superintendent of District 65.
District 65
This is the local school district currently facing a structural budget deficit.
The details
The administration also proposed the elimination of the School Age Child Care program as part of the broader plan to reduce costs. While the school closures were recommended on October 13, 2026, the district has not moved to sell the buildings.
Timeline
October 13, 2026: Interim Superintendent Eric Witherspoon recommended the school closures.
July 1, 2028: The district intends to relinquish head start operations.
Culture Shift
This proposal follows a pattern set by the national trend of school district consolidation due to declining enrollment. Local administrators are increasingly forced to prioritize fiscal sustainability over the maintenance of aging or underutilized infrastructure.
Families currently utilizing Dewey or Lincolnwood elementary schools face potential changes to their children's enrollment locations if the board adopts the plan. Residents may also see future local tax referendums as the district seeks funds for renovations.
The takeaway
District officials are navigating a difficult financial landscape that may reshape the local educational footprint. Parents should monitor upcoming board meetings for formal votes that will determine the final schedule for facility and program changes.
Further reading
Learn more about local oversight and school governance on the Administration page.
Live Poll
Do you support the proposed closure of elementary schools to address your local district budget deficit?
