USD 365 Community Information Brief: Greeley Elementary Closure Review

 

USD 365 understands that decisions involving our schools deeply affect our students, families, staff, and the entire community. We are committed to keeping you informed, listening carefully, and approaching this process with transparency and care. This brief provides an update following the recent petition submitted to the Kansas State Board of Education regarding the proposed closure of Greeley Elementary School.

 

State Administrative Review Outcome

After reviewing the petition, the Kansas State Board’s administrative review concluded:

• No evidence was found that USD 365’s resolution to close Greeley Elementary was unreasonable.
• The district’s goals—responding to declining enrollment and managing operational costs—were recognized as valid challenges faced by many districts across Kansas
• The review noted that the USD 365 Board of Education:
  • Considered both benefits and potential impacts of the closure
  • Engaged in a thoughtful decision-making process, including public presentations and discussion

The State Board emphasized that the purpose of the review was not to decide whether a different school should be closed or whether closure should occur at all, but rather to determine if the board’s decision falls within a reasonable range of action.

 

Final Determination:
Based on the totality of circumstances, the proposed closure of Greeley Elementary at the end of the 2025–2026 school year was deemed a reasonable action.

 

What Happens Next

As required by state statute, USD 365 will now:

 

We know that this news may be difficult, and we want to ensure there are meaningful opportunities for your voice to be heard.

 

1. Public Hearing

• The district will present the findings of the administrative review
• Community members will have the opportunity to share their thoughts, concerns, and perspectives

2. Board Consideration and Action

• The Board of Education will carefully consider both the review results and community input
• A final decision regarding the proposed closure will then be made

Details regarding the date, time, and location of the public hearing will be shared soon.

 

Our Commitment Moving Forward

We recognize that this situation brings a wide range of emotions, and we respect that this school holds deep meaning for many in our community. Decisions like this are never made lightly. Throughout this process, we remain committed to:

• Supporting all students with high-quality, sustainable educational opportunities
• Being thoughtful and responsible with district resources
• Listening to our community and valuing every voice

 

Stay Informed

We Will continue to share updates through:

• District website
• Parentsquare
• Board of Education meetings

If you have questions or would like to speak with someone directly, please contact the district office. We are here to listen and support you.