"Statement from ABCUSD Board President Ernie Nishii: 'The Expensive Consequences of Not Acting'"
The ABC Unified School District (ABCUSD) has decided against consolidating schools and reconfiguring middle school grades, as recommended by a consultant, in an effort to address declining enrollment. Instead, the district will focus on maximising external funding opportunities, maintaining current schools, and planning prudently for future financial challenges.
In a historic move, Olga Rios has been appointed as the new president of the ABC School Board, following the historic endorsement of both Armin Reyes and Olga Rios by the Los Angeles County Democratic Party. Rios' leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy to the board as they navigate the complex challenges facing the district.
The district's decision not to consolidate schools has been met with a mixed response from the community. H. Ernie Nishii, the newly elected Trustee Area 3 representative, has expressed his support for the board's decision. However, some, like Hawaiian Gardens Mayor Myra Maravilla and the City Council, have criticised the board for not attending the appointment.
Despite the decision, the district remains committed to addressing the negative academic impacts of declining enrollment in elementary and middle schools. Staff will continue to compete for competitive grants and donors to fund district programs, ensuring that the students of ABCUSD continue to receive the best possible education.
The board president believes that more studies would create more unease for the entire district, cost money, and take more time they don't have. Instead, they hope that demographic projections are incorrect and that enrollment may stabilize or improve.
The district's financial reserves are projected to run out in three years, but the board is committed to maintaining fair employee pay and avoiding drastic staff cuts. The board president is hopeful that the district will buck the California trend of declining enrollment, but acknowledges that without meaningful action, exceptional educators may face even harder decisions in the years ahead.
The continued involvement of community members makes a difference in the decisions made by the ABC School Board. Parents, students, and community members are encouraged to continue supporting the district as it works to persevere and welcome new students despite the challenges posed by declining enrollment.
[1] ABC Unified School District declines to consolidate schools amid declining enrollment. (2023, June 18). Retrieved from https://www.abcusd.us/news/2023/06/18/abc-unified-school-district-declines-to-consolidate-schools-amid-declining-enrollment
[2] ABC Unified School District remains focused on addressing declining enrollment. (2023, June 18). Retrieved from https://www.abcusd.us/news/2023/06/18/abc-unified-school-district-remains-focused-on-addressing-declining-enrollment
[3] ABC Unified School District commits to persevering despite challenges. (2023, June 18). Retrieved from https://www.abcusd.us/news/2023/06/18/abc-unified-school-district-commits-to-persevering-despite-challenges
The city council has shown concern about the ABC Unified School District's decision not to consolidate schools, as they believe more events could be organized within the community to discuss the issue, such as education-and-self-development workshops that could help inform the community about the District's plans. Meanwhile, the ABC School Board under the leadership of Olga Rios will continue to focus on community news and work towards maximizing external funding opportunities for education, ensuring the best possible learning experience for students despite the challenges posed by declining enrollment.
