6883 Policy – Closure of Facilities

Prior to closure of a school for foreseen circumstances, the board will consider the superintendent's written summary analysis of the effects of the proposed school closure. During the ninety-days (90) prior to the board making its final decision on any school closure, the board will conduct one or more hearings to receive testimony on any issues related to the closure of any school for instructional purposes. Notice of each hearing will be published once each week for two consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation that serves the area where the school is located. The last notice will be published at least seven days prior to the hearing. The notice will contain the date, time, place and purpose of the hearing. Separate hearings will be held for each school which is proposed to be closed.  Comments received from interested parties will be used for advisory purposes only. The final determination of whether a facility will be closed or remain open will be made by the board.
 

This policy does not apply to emergency or unforeseen closures.  As provided in state law, the board of directors has the authority to close a school building when an unforeseen natural event or mechanical failure causes a facility to become unsafe, unhealthy, inaccessible, or inoperable.

Legal References:
RCW 28A.320.010 Corporate powers
RCW 28A.335.020 School closures – Policy of citizen involvement required – Summary of effects – Hearings – Notice.
RCW 28A.150.290(2) State superintendent to make rules and regulations – Unforeseen conditions or actions to be recognized – Paperwork limited.

Adopted/Previous Revisions: 02/14/13; 09/18/19
Last Revised:  06/11/26
Superintendent or Board Approved:  Board Approved