Long Beach Unified School District Board of Education approves two closures
The schools will close after the 2026–27 school year, while families seek transition plans and the district faces a $45 million deficit.
Two hosts walk through the week’s edition in conversation — board approves edison and gompers closures, public comment (agenda items), and what’s coming next. Generated by Aware, from this week’s verified summaries.
One Board of Education member said closing schools alone would not erase the shortfall; the superintendent said more cuts would be developed over the next two months.
Two elementary schools now have an end date. The Long Beach Unified School District Board of Education approved the superintendent’s recommendation to close Edison Elementary School and a second elementary school at the end of the 2026–27 school year. Students, families and staff urged the Board of Education to reconsider, citing community ties, student well-being and safety on the way to school.
Board of Education members described declining enrollment and rising costs as reasons for the decision. One member said the district has 12,000 fewer students than it did six years ago and that closing schools alone would not eliminate its shortfall. The superintendent put the deficit at $45 million and the reduction goal at $30 million. Asked how the district would find further savings, the superintendent said staff would develop proposals over the next two months, starting with services furthest from classrooms, contracts and supplies.
The Board of Education discussed how students would move to other campuses. Its student member asked about children with individualized education programs; another member said transitions would depend on each student’s needs and plan. Members raised transportation, family support and future uses for the campuses. The superintendent said leasing space on a campus while students attend school could create security risks, and renting a few rooms would not cover operating costs. Details of the student transitions remain to be worked out.
Public Comment (Agenda Items): Generative AI/Technology Use in Schools (Zombie-Themed Speakers)
At a Long Beach Unified School District Board of Education meeting, several public commenters used a Halloween zombie theme to argue that screens and generative AI are harming students’ literacy, critical thinking and social skills. They linked heavy classroom technology use to weaker reading and writing skills. These were speakers’ concerns, not findings adopted by the Board of Education.
Speakers urged the district to sharply limit device use except when necessary, such as for required testing. They called for more books and paper-based work, and suggested teaching computer skills and media literacy in dedicated classes rather than using devices across all subjects. One speaker described becoming dependent on learning apps in elementary school and questioned whether gamified lessons helped students build math skills.
Commenters also argued that generative AI can encourage students to finish work quickly without thinking deeply. They asked the Board of Education to set limits, provide training and enforce rules for its use from elementary through high school. The comments did not result in a policy vote.
Student performance highlights Ballet Folklórico program
The Long Beach Unified School District Board of Education watched a student performance highlighting a Ballet Folklórico program that has run for about 10 years. Presenters described how dance, costumes and music teach cultural history, while a student said participation helped them feel part of a community.
The program gives students a way to learn cultural history through performance and share it with classmates.
District reports grading updates and coaching support
The Long Beach Unified School District Board of Education heard an instructional support report on updated grading guidance, including how teachers handle late work. Staff said 14 coaches support about 20 schools in areas including special education, biology and ethnic studies; the report drew no vote.
Late-work rules affect students’ grades, while coaching gives teachers help in subjects where schools identify needs.
School naming policy heads toward November consideration
The Long Beach Unified School District Board of Education heard that staff expect to bring revised school naming policy materials to the next meeting, with consideration planned for November. An advisory group report also covered grading guidance, AI resources and coaching cycles for teachers.
Families should have a chance to review the proposed naming rules before the Board of Education considers them.
Board of Education accepts student achievement reports
The Long Beach Unified School District Board of Education accepted monitoring reports on math readiness and progress toward graduation. Staff reported green ratings for college and career readiness and graduation, and said 71% of Black students passed algebra by the end of ninth grade.
The reports show where students are making progress and where they may need more help before graduation.
- Long Beach Unified School District Board of Education. One speaker criticized multiculturalism and diversity, referenced unrest in European countries, cited statements attributed to political figures, and characterized immigration as an invasion. The speaker accused the board of engaging in anti-American activity.
- Long Beach Unified School District Board of Education. Multiple speakers used a Halloween “zombie” theme to argue that excessive screen time and generative AI harm literacy, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and social skills. They urged reducing device use, prioritizing books and paper-based work, and adopting regulation, training, and limits on generative AI in schools.
- Long Beach Unified School District Board of Education. Student speakers asked the Board not to close their school, describing sadness, loss of friendships, and the school as a place of belonging. They requested the school remain open so they can continue learning with their peers and teachers.
- Long Beach Unified School District Board of Education. Speakers described schools as community anchors with long histories and multi-generational ties. Teachers and parents said closures would harm student belonging, mental health, and community stability, and asked the Board to reconsider.
- Long Beach Unified School District Board of Education. Speakers warned that closures would force students to travel farther, cross many intersections, and face safety risks. They requested transportation plans, crossing guards, and support for families who walk students to school.
What we didn’t fit in this Sundays edition
LONG BEACH had 37 more items this week. Here are sixfour — the rest are on Aware.
- GOVERNANCEGovernance: Scheduling of Results-Focused Governance Work Session (Nov. 10 at YMCA). The Board scheduled a results-focused governance work session for November 10 at the YMCA and discussed participation/support for the session.
- GOVERNANCERecognition: National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The student board member recognized October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and emphasized education, early detection, and access to timely, high-quality care, including for metastatic breast cancer.
- GOVERNANCEStudent Board Member Report: Breast Cancer Awareness and Student Encouragement. The student board member noted October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and encouraged students navigating college applications to seek help from school and college centers, emphasizing that the process will be okay.
- GOVERNANCEBoard approves quarterly governance self-assessment score of 39. The board reviewed its quarterly results-focused governance self-assessment and approved a score of 39. Members noted missing time-tracking data and discussed who will facilitate the next evaluation.
- GOVERNANCEBoard members reflect on school closures and district events. Board members thanked attendees and staff and reflected on the impact of the school-closure decision. They also highlighted heritage celebrations, career events and the superintendent’s message of solidarity concerning immigration enforcement.
- GOVERNANCEStudent Board Member Message to Seniors: College Application Support. The student board member encouraged seniors during the college application season and urged students to seek help, including using the school college and career center.
- GOVERNANCEBoard approves acting Head Start manager appointment. The board reported approving Lizeth Ledesma as acting Head Start manager in closed session, effective October 5, 2026. A related record describes the assignment as an interim leadership appointment through October 2026.
- GOVERNANCERecognition/Message: October Awareness (Health) and College Application Encouragement. A speaker noted October as a month for awareness and early detection of a serious disease and shared encouragement for students applying to college to seek help and not be afraid to ask for support.
- GOVERNANCEStudent Representative Report: Renaissance High School. A Renaissance High School student representative reported on campus events, arts programming, and a collaboration on an AI statement. The student also shared post-graduation plans.
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