Massena school district considers grade-by-grade building assignments

Massena Central School District is reviewing how it uses its five school buildings as projected graduating classes decline to between about 130 and 160 students within six to seven years, Superintendent Ron Burke said.

One option would place each elementary grade in a separate building, move sixth graders to the junior high and move eighth graders to the high school. The district is also considering reducing teaching positions through attrition. Officials say the plan could create more consistent curriculum, free classroom space and reduce costs, but it would also mean more school transitions for students and possible changes for families who drive them.

The district plans to send a community survey and hold a forum Thursday morning at the Massena Community Center. The Board of Education is expected to decide on a path forward in February.