Pinellas Schools Face Major Campus Changes | Tampa News

Pinellas County Schools is facing a major shake-up as it prepares to shutter seven campuses and merge others, driven by a 35-year plunge in birth rates that’s left them with over 45,000 empty seats — all in an effort to save $25 million annually. The district is determined to protect jobs, having done so before, with plans to expand some schools, convert elementary schools into K-8 programs, and relocate others. Superintendent Kevin Hendrick admits the changes are tough — emotionally wrenching for families whose kids are already settled — but necessary to keep the system strong. Parents are understandably anxious about how this will impact their children’s education and routines. To ease concerns, the district is hosting community meetings at affected schools through early October. After gathering input, the school board will hold a workshop on October 6th, with final decisions set for October 13th. 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/15e2e402d3cdfc7a