Local education leaders endorse ending plans for several new institutions
Broward County Public Schools faces a significant budget deficit of $94.7 million for the upcoming academic year, an increase from earlier estimates. Superintendent Howard Hepburn presented these figures to the School Board, attributing the shortfall to continued enrollment declines, with approximately 20,000 students lost over the past five years.
To address financial pressures, the district has implemented a hiring freeze, restricted travel, limited overtime, and plans to eliminate approximately 1,000 positions before the next school year. Hepburn will issue formal recommendations on Friday, which align with proposals discussed during recent board workshops.
Seven schools are proposed for closure: Sunshine Elementary in Miramar, Panther Run Elementary and Palm Cove Elementary in Pembroke Pines, Plantation Middle in Plantation, North Fork Elementary in Fort Lauderdale, Bair Middle in Sunrise, and Seagull Alternative High in Fort Lauderdale. Students from these campuses would transfer to neighboring schools.
Two schools previously slated for closure received temporary reprieves. Glades Middle in Miramar may convert to a K-8 institution, while Walter C. Young Middle in Pembroke Pines will remain open for several more years. Final decisions regarding closures and restructuring will be made by the School Board in January.