SAB to vote tonight on school closings recommendations

KSDK -- The Special Administrative Board for the St. Louis Public School District will vote Thursday night on how many schools will close next school year and in the next few years.

Superintendent Kelvin Adams said declining enrollment and financial concerns are the main reasons 17 schools are on the list for possible closure. The district is also reportedly facing a $36 million deficit.

When Adams announced the closings last month, he made it clear, if necessary, more schools could close at a later time.

Consultants hired by the SAB had previously recommended 29 schools close.

If the SAB approves the 17 closures, 14 schools could close this year and three would close next year.

Thursday's meeting begins at 6:00 p.m. at Gateway Middle School on North Jefferson.

Superintendent Adams plans to hold a news conference on Friday to discuss how the district will implement the closing plan and make changes.