Full Breakdown
Minneapolis Schools Face Consolidation Amid Budget Crisis
By Drooid · · How we work
Proposed Consolidation Plan
The Minneapolis Public Schools district unveiled three “school transformation” options that would merge programs, redraw attendance boundaries and shift thousands of students. Under every option, 14 named buildings—Loring, Hmong International Academy, Lincoln, Bethune, FAIR High School for the Arts, Anwatin, Pratt, Heritage Academy High School, Hiawatha, Longfellow, Lake Harriet Lower, Field, Kenny and Wenonah—would end their current academic programming. One or two additional sites—Cityview, Webster and/or Howe—could also be closed, depending on the chosen plan. The district estimates the changes would affect roughly 12 % to 14 % of students.
Background and Fiscal Pressures
District officials have warned of a long-standing budget shortfall exacerbated by falling enrollment. A recent regional survey indicated that more than half of Twin Cities districts expect a combined shortfall exceeding $220 million for the 2026-27 school year. In 2024 the district’s building audit found over half of its facilities operating at 70 % capacity or less; middle-school reports show three schools at or below 50 % enrollment, while seven of eight high schools sit at 60 % or lower. The district also disclosed a billing error that added over $10 million to its projected budget and an external audit that uncovered $3 million diverted from an employee health fund.
Official Statements & Responses
The board is set to collect public feedback through mid-October, with a vote slated for November and implementation targeted for the 2027-28 school year.
Criticism & Opposition
The Minneapolis Federation of Teachers called the plan “unacceptable,” arguing that the closures would not generate “meaningful” savings and would disproportionately impact marginalized communities. Union leaders urged a focus on recruitment, retention and extended community engagement before any closures proceed. Amanda Otero, co-executive director of TakeAction Minnesota, condemned the proposals as “offensive” and destabilizing for families still recovering from Operation Metro Surge.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The reality is our district is spread too thin, which means resources are used to support an inefficient footprint instead of directly supporting student experiences,” — Lisa Sayles-Adams
- “In the wake of Operation Metro Surge, our families need stability and community now more than ever. MPS leadership is choosing to tear apart the school communities we rely on — and they’re not even willing to come out and directly tell families what’s happening. Frankly, it’s offensive,” — Amanda Otero
- “But the alternative is continued budget cuts, schools with too few students, a struggle to provide consistent opportunities across the city, and ongoing instability,” — Lisa Sayles-Adams
- “We, the board, have not voted on a single one of these options for closures. We don't have to accept any of these options,” — Greta Callahan