State Representative Matt Gress is calling on the Scottsdale Unified School District Governing Board to postpone its decision on closing Pima Elementary and Echo Canyon K-8 School. Gress, who chairs the House Education Committee and co-chairs the Joint Legislative Audit Committee, sent a letter urging the board to delay the vote until February 1. He expressed concerns about the speed of the process, gaps in fiscal analysis, and unanswered questions regarding the impact on students and families.
Gress emphasized that school closures have lasting consequences and urged for a comprehensive review before any action is taken. “Closing schools has lasting consequences. Before the board takes any action, the public should see a full explanation of the fiscal impact, the alternatives that were considered, and how the district plans to support the students who would be uprooted,” he said.
The Scottsdale Unified School District has cited declining enrollment and a projected budget deficit as reasons for expedited action. However, Gress argued that financial options exist to maintain operations while conducting a thorough public review. “Families deserve clarity before a final decision is made,” he said.
Gress also mentioned plans to introduce emergency legislation with Senator Werner next session. This legislation would allow districts to sell unused or underused properties and use proceeds to enhance academic programs, offering an alternative to school closures. “Districts need practical tools to respond to enrollment shifts,” he noted.
He concluded by urging the board to pause its process and allow time for due diligence and legislative action on proposed policies. “This decision can wait. Taking the time to do this right will help the board make a more informed and beneficial choice,” Gress added.
Matt Gress was elected in 2023 as a Republican representative for Arizona’s 4th House District, succeeding Joel Joh.
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