DTustumena Elementary School 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;

Tustumena Elementary School currently serves 116 students in a facility with a capacity of 400, resulting in significantly higher per-student operational costs compared to other schools in the district;

Continued operation of Tustumena Elementary School is not financially sustainable, and closure is projected to result in substantial cost savings for the district, estimated at approximately $416.842 annually;

The district has explored potential alternatives, community-based solutions, and conducted public engagement with stakeholders, including the Kasilof community;

Alternative educational options are available in adjacent communities of Soldotna (Redoubt Elementary) and Ninilchick where middle and high schools students currently attend, both of which have capacity to accommodate reassigned students;

Upon the Board's approval for the Superintendent to implement the permanent closure of Tustumena Elementary School, 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 Tustumena Elementary 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. Develop a plan for the future use, repurposing, or disposition of the Tustumena Elementary School facility in coordination with borough authorities;
5. Continue communication with the Kasilof community throughout the closure and transition process, with respect and transparency.