The Robbinsdale Area Schools Board continued planning for facility consolidation during a study session Monday, reviewing two preliminary options that would close three buildings by the 2026-27 school year as part of the district's statutory operating debt plan.

The options presented by administration would reduce the district's elementary footprint to five or six non-magnet schools and middle school operations to one or two buildings. Both scenarios would remove Robbinsdale Middle School from active use while retaining the property, relocate the Education Service Center, and move community education offices to the Crystal Learning Center.

Dr. McDow, assistant superintendent, outlined capacity and utilization data showing several elementary buildings operating well below capacity. Lake View, Sonos, Neil, and Noble elementary schools each enroll between 228 and 280 students despite having capacities of at least 500 students. These buildings capture less than 50 percent of students living within their boundaries.

Board members raised concerns about splitting school communities and maintaining programming quality during transitions. Director Long questioned whether options existed that wouldn't require dividing existing school populations between multiple buildings. Administration acknowledged the emotional impact of potential moves while emphasizing the financial necessity of reducing the district's building footprint.

The board also established procedures for filling the vacancy left by Dr. Holmes' resignation. Applications will be accepted through November 6, with interviews scheduled for November 20. The appointed candidate cannot take office for 30 days after selection, likely delaying the start date until the January organizational meeting.