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 each school's unique strengths, needs, and challenges. From the visit, four thematic categories can be identified based on observations, comments, and experiences.

Broadleigh Elementary School

1. Staff Dedication and Resilience

• Themes: Committed educators, caring staff, and volunteer support.

Explanation: Despite challenges, Broadleigh benefits from a team of dedicated staff and parent volunteers who work hard to support students. The literacy resources room exemplifies the staff's efforts to provide enriching opportunities. However, staff morale and shortage concerns highlight the need for better support and a unified vision to foster a positive school culture.

2. Diverse and Citywide Student Population

• Themes: ESL services, multilingual environment, and transportation challenges.

Explanation: Broadleigh serves a diverse student population, including many students who are bussed in from across the city for its ESL programs. While this diversity enriches the school environment, it also creates challenges in maintaining a cohesive culture and equitable access to resources.

3. Significant Facility and Infrastructure Challenges

• Themes: Outdated building, overcrowded classrooms, and non-ADA compliance.

Explanation: Broadleigh's infrastructure is outdated and poorly maintained. The absence of sidewalks and ADA-compliant features further underscores safety and accessibility concerns. Overcrowded classrooms and the use of modular units for instruction reveal pressing space limitations.

4. Mixed Opinions on Closure and Consolidation

• Themes: Advocacy for and against closure, concerns about equity, and future uncertainty.

Explanation: Broadleigh's potential closure or consolidation has sparked divided opinions among staff, families, and the community. Advocates for closure cite the school's structural challenges and lack of vision, while opponents emphasize the importance of maintaining ESL services and supporting the existing student population. This division reflects broader concerns about the equity of student support services and the need for a clear path forward.