A letter to the editor and Crookston School Board,
As our community approaches the special school board meeting on Thursday, April 9, I feel compelled to again express my deep concern regarding the proposed closure of Washington School.
Over the past several months, many community members have asked thoughtful and important questions. Unfortunately, too many of those questions remain either unanswered or addressed with uncertainty. Phrases like “as of now,” “to be determined,” or “unless something changes” do not provide the clarity or confidence that families and educators deserve.
Crookston’s students are not one-size-fits-all. They come to school with a wide range of academic, emotional, behavioral, and social needs. Our teachers, paraprofessionals, and school staff work tirelessly to meet those needs each day. I have seen this firsthand through the care and attention my own child has received. That level of support depends not only on dedicated staff, but also on having appropriate space and resources.
Safety is another critical concern. Morning drop-off is already congested and, at times, hazardous. Adding more students will only increase traffic and elevate the risk. For preschool families, removing children from car seats requires adequate space and a safe, well-maintained parking lot—conditions that are not always present. During our Midwest winters and into spring, portions of the parking lot are frequently covered in ice, and sidewalks are not consistently cleared, creating additional safety hazards.
Inside the building, increased enrollment often brings greater behavioral and support needs. If classroom space is reduced, we must carefully consider the consequences. Overcrowded classrooms and makeshift learning areas are not environments where children can thrive—especially those already facing academic or behavioral challenges. Environment matters. Space matters.
Last November, I started a petition to keep Washington School open and submitted this to the school board. The 463 signatures collected in a 10-day period represented parents, educators, childcare providers, business owners, and community members who care deeply about the direction our district is heading. These concerns are real, shared, and deserve to be taken seriously.
I understand that school board members must consider financial realities. However, our children are not simply numbers in a budget—they are the future of our community. The decisions being made now will have lasting effects on their development and well-being.
I urge the school board to once again take a step back, listen carefully to the community, and fully consider the long-term impact of these decisions. Our children—and the educators who support them—deserve thoughtful, transparent, and student-centered planning.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Murphy
Parent and Crookston School District Resident
