Miami-Dade County Public Schools is planning boundary changes for 11 schools in the upcoming school year, with two schools potentially being repurposed.
Why It Matters
While boundary adjustments are routine, this year’s proposed changes highlight a continued decline in public school enrollment. The shift is largely attributed to increasing private school alternatives and the state’s expanding voucher program.
According to the Florida Department of Education, enrollment in traditional public schools dropped from 254,852 students last spring to 249,295 at the start of this school year. In contrast, charter school enrollment grew by approximately 1,500 students, rising from 85,043 to 86,545 in the same period. Officials had already anticipated a loss of around 4,000 students for the 2024-25 school year, reflecting both demographic trends and educational policy shifts.
How It Works
Each year, officials review and propose boundary adjustments to optimize school utilization, comply with state regulations, and address enrollment fluctuations. Several factors contribute to these decisions, including:
- Declining enrollment numbers
- Class size requirements
- New residential developments and schools
- Efforts to reduce or eliminate racial isolation
Impact of the Changes
The proposed boundary shifts will affect seven schools in the district’s north region and four schools in the central region. There are no proposed changes for schools in the south region. While hundreds of students will be impacted, specific figures are not yet available.
School Repurposing and Conversions
Two schools are under consideration for repurposing:
- Poinciana Park Elementary (north region)
- Country Club Middle (central region)
Repurposed schools may be converted into specialized exceptional student education (ESE) centers or full-service resource centers, though final plans have yet to be determined. Additionally, Palm Springs North in the north region will be transformed into a K-8 Center to accommodate growth.
The proposed changes aim to ensure efficient resource utilization while adapting to shifting enrollment patterns and educational demands in Miami-Dade County.
