Between October 28 and October 31, members of the Board of Education visited nine school communities under consideration for consolidation and closure. These visits offered valuable insights into the unique strengths, needs, and challenges of each school. From the visit, four thematic categories can be identified based on observations, comments, and experiences.

Moler Elementary School

1. Community Commitment and Support

• Themes: Strong leadership, dedicated staff, and wraparound services.

Explanation: Moler Elementary benefits from a committed administration and stable staff who collaborate with community partners, such as the YMCA and Columbus Urban League, to address students' social and emotional needs. The school's achievements in Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) reflect a disciplined yet nurturing environment, emphasizing the commitment to student well-being and academic success.

2. Facility and Infrastructure Challenges

• Themes: Outdated building, inadequate design for elementary use, and non-functional spaces.

Explanation: Operating in a former middle school building presents significant challenges. The space is not designed for younger students, with issues such as dark hallways, non-ADA compliance, portable sinks in PreK classrooms, and a non-functional auditorium. The gymnasium is outdated, partially inaccessible, and still branded with the previous middle school's identity. General building conditions, including leaks, broken tiles, and foggy windows, further highlight the urgent need for infrastructure improvements.

3. Financial Constraints and Operational Challenges

• Themes: Budget limitations, inequitable resources, and fear of further consolidation.

Explanation: Despite the larger middle school building, Moler operates on an elementary school budget, limiting its ability to address its significant infrastructure needs. Many concerns about potential consolidation or closure would disrupt the school community that has already experienced such disruption twice.

4. Student Needs and Whole-Child Focus

• Themes: Specialized programming, SEL support, and high special education population.

Explanation: Moler serves a diverse student population, with 30% identified as special education. Specialized programming, such as special needs PreK and Head Start, demonstrates the school's focus on meeting the needs of the whole child. While students are engaged and supported, there is a recognized need for additional SEL resources and spaces that align better with elementary-level needs to ensure all students can thrive.