ARiver City Academy Closure

Background Information:

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District (KPBSD) faces a projected budget deficit of approximately $8.5 million for the upcoming fiscal year, necessitating difficult decisions regarding the operation of under-enrolled schools;

River City Academy currently serves 62 students, making staffing difficult.

Continued operation of River City Academy is not financially sustainable, and closure is projected to result in substantial cost savings for the district, estimated at approximately $323,856 annually;

The district has explored potential alternatives, conducted public engagement with stakeholders, including the River City Academy community;

Alternative educational options are available in the community with 7th and 8th grade going to the Skyview Middle School, and 9th through 12th grade being housed at Soldotna High school, both of which have capacity to accommodate reassigned students;

Upon the Board's approval for the Superintendent to implement the permanent closure of River City Academy, effective June 30, 2026, at the end of the 2025–2026 school year the Superintendent will;

1. Implement a transition plan for reassignment of all River City Academy students to appropriate receiving schools;
2. Ensure that all affected families are supported in this transition, including assistance with transportation and enrollment;
3. Reassign staff in accordance with district policies and applicable collective bargaining agreements;
4. Continue communication with the River City Academy community throughout the closure and transition process, with respect and transparency.