Strengthening Our Future Together

As part of our ongoing commitment to provide quality education while addressing financial challenges, the Phoenix Elementary School District has made the difficult decision to close Paul Laurence Dunbar School and Maie Bartlett Heard Elementary School at the end of the 2024-2025 school year. Beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, Dunbar students will transition to Bethune or Magnet Traditional, and Heard students will join Capitol or Magnet Traditional. We are confident that these schools are ready to welcome their new students and provide them with an excellent educational experience.

Why Are These Changes Happening?

This decision was driven by a combination of factors, including declining enrollment, reduced federal funding, and the operation of multiple schools below capacity. To ensure the long-term sustainability of the district, we must consolidate resources and focus on maintaining high-quality programs and services. 

Supporting Our Families Through the Transition

We understand that changes like these can be challenging, and we are committed to supporting our students and families during this time. Here’s how we’re ensuring a smooth transition:

• Information Meetings: We will hold meetings at the affected schools to provide updates and answer questions.
• Support for Special Populations: We will continue to meet the needs of students receiving special education, English Language Learners, and other essential services.
• Transportation Plans: We will develop transportation options to ensure students can easily access their schools.
• School-Based Transition Teams: Each school will have a team dedicated to helping students and families navigate the transition.
• Family Engagement: We value your input and will work closely with families to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible.
• Repurposing School Buildings: We are committed to ensuring that no school buildings remain empty and will explore options to repurpose them in a way that benefits the community.
• Collaboration with Stakeholders: We will collaborate with local partners to enhance services and programs for students and families during and after the transition.
  
   

The Path Forward: Focusing on What Matters Most

While closing schools is a difficult decision, we believe these changes will ultimately strengthen our district’s programs. By consolidating resources, we can ensure that we continue to provide smaller class sizes, full-day kindergarten, preschool, and vital student support services—priorities that are essential to the success and well-being of our students.

We are grateful for your continued support as we move forward with this transition. Together, we will ensure a bright future for all Phoenix #1 students.

Important Information

Bethune Elementary School

1310 S. 15th Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85007
Grades: Preschool – 8
Hours: 7:30 am – 2:30 pm
Specialty program: Health Careers Pathways

 

Uniforms

Capitol Elementary School

330 N. 16th Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85007
Grades: Preschool – 8
Hours: 8:15 am – 3:15 pm
 

Uniforms

Magnet Traditional School

2602 N. 23rd Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85009
Grades: Kindergarten – 8
Hours: 7:30 am – 2:30 pm
Specialty Program: Math and Science Academy


 

Uniforms