Douglas County School District releases elementary school consolidation recommendations
- The Douglas County School District proposed closing Acres Green, Heritage, and Saddle Ranch Elementary schools in Highlands Ranch, with consolidation beginning in the 2026-27 school year.
- The proposed school closures stem from declining enrollment in the Highlands Ranch area, where student counts have plunged from approximately 10,500 in 2012 to 6,000 expected by 2026.
- As part of the consolidation plan, Saddle Ranch students will be absorbed by Eldorado Elementary, Heritage students will go to Summit View Elementary, and Acres Green students will enroll at Fox Creek Elementary.
- According to a district spokesperson, Paula Hans, “While change is never easy, DCSDs priority remains the same: ensuring that every child has access to an exceptional education and a very bright future,” as stated in an emailed statement.
- The DCSD Board of Education, comprised of seven members, will vote on the recommendations at their April 8 meeting and make a final decision on April 22, aiming for long-term financial sustainability and enhanced educational opportunities, including moving sixth graders to middle school.
15 Articles
15 Articles


Norfolk council asks School Board for plan to close at least 10 schools
In a shot across the bow aimed at spurring the Norfolk School Board into action, Norfolk City Council passed a resolution Tuesday asking the body to create a plan by August 1 to close and consolidate at least 10 schools. In a unanimous vote, council members passed the resolution at their Tuesday meeting demanding action from the School Board. The move comes as enrollment at Norfolk Public Schools has been drastically declining for years. Accordi…
Douglas County School District recommends 3 elementary schools be consolidated
DENVER (KDVR) -- The Douglas County School District is recommending three elementary schools be consolidated into other schools beginning in the 2026-2027 school year. The district in a press release Monday said the decision comes after nearly two years of planning and evaluation and was the result of "extensive analysis to address declining enrollment in parts of Highlands Ranch and to ensure that all students have access to a comprehensive, we…
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