BTU Statement on School Closure Announcements
The Boston Teachers Union believes that every student in Boston deserves a school that inspires learning, nurtures their growth, and gives them the strongest possible foundation for the future. Any decisions about our school buildings must put the voices of educators, students, and families at the center. Furthermore, to hold a vote of the School Committee less than a month after the recommendation is submitted in the midst of the holiday season is no way to allow for school communities to respond to the devastating news of their closure.
No school should be closed unless the district can guarantee a clearly better option. That means providing students with a modern, safe school building, expanded academic programming, and meaningful improvements in opportunities for students. Anything less risks destabilizing school communities and undermining student success.
The Boston Teachers Union has introduced a comprehensive Facilities Resolution that provides a responsible and equitable roadmap for improving our school infrastructure. It outlines how Boston can modernize buildings, expand high-quality programming, and strengthen student supports without sacrificing the stability our communities rely on.
We urge city and district leaders to follow this framework and ensure that any proposals are transparent, community-driven, and truly in the best interest of Boston’s students. Including all voices will ensure that decisions about our schools are deliberate, transparent, and grounded in the voices of the families and educators who know our students best.