Updates & Timeline

On focusing the analysis to Option 2:

• Board members discussed limiting the study to a single intermediate option to avoid an unworkable number of variations and to reduce uncertainty.
• During discussion, one member stated they were “fine with option two” and preferred option one not remain on the table due to transportation and logistics concerns.

On Johnson STEAM Academy:

• Members emphasized the importance of public clarity and directed that Johnson STEAM Academy be maintained as an elementary school as the district continues its redesign analysis.
• The stated purpose was to ensure the recommendation does not “come back differently” after outside analysis.

On what happens next:

• The Board signaled that deeper feasibility work should come back with clearer criteria, operational plans, and transportation considerations.
• This meeting narrowed options for study — it did not finalize school closures.

Late January–Early February 2026 — Community feedback and survey window.

• District survey feedback and public comment consistently elevated concerns about transportation time, student transitions, and stability for school communities.
• Parents for Pierce tracked that Pierce remained open under the Intermediate Model’s Option 2 while closing under other configurations.

January 2026 — District communications updated the consolidation timeline.

• District communication outlined a slower process: narrowing options for study, additional engagement, and a later final decision.
• Implementation continues to be discussed for Fall 2027.