Ortega Closing Sparks Community Pushback | Jacksonville News

Ortega Elementary is set to close at the end of the 2028 school year, with students moving to a rebuilt Venetia Elementary — a decision that sparked fierce community backlash. Parents and neighbors voiced concerns over the proposed school’s size, warning it could worsen traffic, compromise safety, and disrupt neighborhood character. While supporters see the upgrade as long-overdue, critics argue the expansion might harm more than help. Communication gaps also drew criticism, with many feeling left out of the process. Though the vote passed swiftly under the consent agenda, board members acknowledged the need for better community outreach. A pending traffic study may yet reshape the final design — but for now, the loss of a beloved neighborhood school weighs heavy on families. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/274116c4ec062954