The Inglewood Unified School District, grappling with a steep decrease in student numbers, has resolved to shutter five of its schools by the culmination of the 2024-25 academic term, officials confirmed on Wednesday. The district's Superintendent, Dr. James Morris, addressed the matter with a clear-eyed analysis of the district's fiscal realities. "Simply put, we’re operating more schools than we can afford to operate," Morris explained in an address cited by KTLA. The economic rationalization, for the closings: necessary to enhance instructional quality and maintain the viability of the remaining schools.
According to reporting by ABC7, the district, which once boasted an enrollment of 18,000 students, has seen its numbers dwindle to just under 7,000 over the past two decades. Dr. Morris, capturing the poignancy of the development, said, "I understand that a school is more than a building," emphasizing that the closures, although tough, are crucial to ensuring the district’s financial stability and the responsible use of taxpayer dollars. The schools affected are Morningside High School, Crozier Middle School, Highland Elementary School, Hudnall Elementary School, and Kelso Elementary School.
Already facing the closure of three schools since 2019, IUSD's latest announcement reflects a wider trend in urban education, where inner-city school districts struggle with budget constraints and changing demographics. These closures come as Inglewood school officials continue to pay the state over $2 million a year, a consequence of past financial mismanagement that has haunted the district for 12 years, findings provided by ABC7 reveal.
Nevertheless, the disheartening news of the closures is counterweighted by the forward-looking plans that remain underway for the district. Morris confirmed, the intent to rebuild Inglewood High School and establish a new high school academy. In a heartfelt message, he assured the Inglewood community that the memories and relationships built within these soon-to-be-closed schools have long transcended their physical spaces, and the district is committed to fostering an environment where dreams can continue to thrive.
