Mesa Public Schools Considers K-12 Expansion Amid Declining Enrollment Trends

The Mesa Public Schools Planning and Boundary Design Advisory Committee convened on September 4, 2025, to address significant challenges facing the district, particularly concerning declining student enrollment. The meeting began with acknowledgments, including a tribute to Mrs. Marilyn Wilson, a governing board member with 16 years of service, highlighting her contributions to the district and the City of Mesa.

The committee reviewed critical data indicating a nationwide decline in student enrollment, projecting a decrease of 2.8 million students in the United States from 2021 to 2030. Mesa Public Schools has mirrored this trend, experiencing a steady decline since its peak enrollment of over 72,000 students in the early 2000s, with a notable drop following the COVID-19 pandemic. This decline is not isolated to Mesa; neighboring districts, including Chandler and Gilbert, are also facing similar challenges.

In light of these trends, the committee discussed the potential for school closures, a measure that several districts, including Kyrene School District, are considering. However, Mesa Public Schools aims to avoid such drastic actions and is exploring creative solutions to maximize the use of existing school facilities.

One proposal that emerged from community feedback was the expansion of the Franklin model from a K-8 to a K-12 school system. Surveys conducted among Franklin parents indicated strong support for this transition, with a net promoter score of 42 reflecting high interest in extending educational offerings. However, the committee noted that implementing this change would require additional resources, specifically 69 more classrooms to accommodate special areas.

The meeting underscored the urgency for Mesa Public Schools to adapt to changing demographics and community needs while striving to maintain educational opportunities for its students. Further discussions and presentations are expected as the district continues to navigate these challenges.