Let's work
together to
build an APS
that works
for ALL

APS has said for years that 80% utilization of schools is the "sweet spot" for maximum benefit for students. APS' consultant has also said that a 95% utilization rate is so "overburdened" that it is already "not functioning." The APS high schools listed above are "not functioning" because they are so far over desired and functioning capacity.

 

While multiple schools are filled beyond capacity with no room to grow, other APS high schools are not functioning because they do not have enough live-in enrollment within current cluster lines to properly utilize the building.  Due to the low enrollment and under-utilization, those clusters have less funding from APS and cannot provide their students with adequate classes, extracurriculars, and programming that are offered at other clusters that are better funded by APS. 

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In order to solve these ongoing issues and to engage in "cost-saving measures," APS, in conjunction with HPM Leadership Consultants, led by Tracy Richter, kicked off its long-term facilities planning process - APS Forward 2040 - in May 2025. Though the proposal initially was dubbed as a "cost-saving measure," it has now shifted to a "cost-neutral approach" at an estimated cost of $245 million to $835 million to build short-term solutions at some, but not all, APS schools. Despite the large cost, APS' consultant, Richter, has repeatedly said in public meetings that "APS cannot build its way out of this problem."

 

The proposals provided to date do not provide long-term sustainable solutions for the over-enrolled high schools and also do not adequately address the chronic under-enrollment, under-utilization, and under-funding at multiple APS high schools.​ Richter has repeatedly said that this will be a "yes and" approach where multiple solutions are needed for this massive issue. We are asking for the APS Board to enact responsible, long-term solutions for the benefit of all APS students.

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We are concerned parents and stakeholders in multiple APS clusters -Douglass, Mays, Midtown, and Washington. We welcome concerned parents and stakeholders from other clusters to join our cause and work with us to help form a solution that will make APS work for all students. While APS's initiative is titled "APS Forward 2040," the APS Board is moving fast and is posed to have a first read on current proposals at their November 2025 meeting with a final vote in December 2025. 

 

The time for all of us to make our voices heard is now. Please join us on this movement to make APS a shining star public school district - and one that works for all APS students. Thanks, y'all!

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