FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Review of Enrollment and Attendance Zones

Why is the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 reviewing its enrollment and attendance areas?

The district is reviewing its enrollment and attendance areas to address shifts in district-wide enrollment. This review aims to ensure that school facilities are used efficiently and that student enrollment aligns with the capacity of each building to maintain a high-quality educational environment.

Where are we at in the process?

Committees have been established and have been meeting over the past 6 weeks (minutes are available on the Enrollment & Attendance Areas website). The board will review the committee’s preliminary recommendations at the regular board meeting on Tues., Nov. 19 at 5:30 p.m. The board will provide guidance based on the preliminary recommendations as one step in the overall process. Community input and additional reviews will follow before the board makes any final decisions.

Have any final decisions been made up to this point in the process?

No decisions have been made. 

Where can I locate the committee’s preliminary recommendations?

On the Board Agenda Item Details from the Nov 19, 2024 - Regular Board Meeting

CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION; TECHNOLOGY; SCHOOL SAFETY; AND ATHLETICS
Subject: District Enrollment and Attendance Areas Committee Update and Recommendation (Information)

What is the ultimate goal of this review process?

he process has been developed to provide the board with well-informed recommendations that will support the district’s long-term goals and ensure continued educational excellence. The ultimate goal of this discussion is to optimize resources and improve the overall quality of education. While any proposed changes or transitions might be challenging, the long-term benefits are intended to create a more efficient and effective educational system for the community of learners we serve.

What happens to staff if the decision includes closing a school?

If a school is closed, all employees will be guaranteed relocation within the district. The district will reassign teachers and administrative staff to other schools, ensuring they continue to contribute to the educational community. Support and resources will be provided to help staff transition smoothly to their new roles and locations. This process will be managed with care to minimize disruption and maintain the quality of education for all learners. The goal is to retain all staff members and ensure a seamless transition for everyone involved.

How does Idaho’s open enrollment law apply to this discussion?

The board of trustees recognizes that parents/guardians of learners residing in the district may desire to enroll their child in a school other than his or her neighborhood school. Based on Idaho’s open enrollment law, families have the flexibility to transfer their child to the school of their choice, as capacity allows. Capacity guidelines are detailed in Board Policy 8106 and on the State of Idaho Open Enrollment SENATE BILL NO.1125.

PCSD 25 Transfer Form: 
Elementary School Transfer form can be found on the Elementary Education website.
Secondary School Transfer form can be found on the Secondary Education website.

What are the goals of the committees formed to review the enrollment and attendance areas?

The committees aim to:

• Address the decline in district-wide enrollment.
• Maximize the use of district resources.
• Develop recommendations/options to provide to the PCSD 25 Board of Trustees.

What guiding principles will the committees follow?

The committees will follow these guiding principles:

• Optimizing Capacity: Balance populations and make the best use of available space.
• Equitable Access: Provide fair access to educational programs and facilities.
• Minimize Disruptions: Prioritize continuity of educational services for learners and families.
• Maintain Efficiency: Consider travel time and middle school and high school feeders.
• Future Needs and Considerations: Plan for future changes and needs.

Who are the members of the committees?

Elementary Sub-Committee: 13 members, including the Director of Elementary Education, two teachers, one parent from each of five geographical areas within the district, two randomly selected parents, and three elementary school administrators.

Middle School Sub-Committee: 15 members, including the Director of Secondary Education, two teachers, and two parents and one administrator representing each middle school.

High School Sub-Committee: In development. The timeline for decision-making will be communicated to the public prior to the formation of the high school enrollment and attendance area subcommittee.

Committee meetings and minutes are posted weekly on the Enrollment & Attendance Areas website.

How can staff, parents, and community members contribute to the process?

Staff, parents, and community members who are not serving on the committees will have opportunities to contribute through public input throughout the process. This includes the ability to provide written communication or in-person public comment during open meetings of the board where the topic of enrollment and attendance areas is being discussed. The district will also host a public hearing to provide another opportunity for community members to voice their perspectives before any final action is taken.

How will the district keep the community informed throughout the process?

The district will provide updates throughout the process on its Enrollment & Attendance Areas website.