Pinellas School Board Votes on Tarpon Springs K-8 Amid Budget Cuts

The Pinellas County School Board will vote Tuesday on a proposal to create two K-8 schools in Tarpon Springs. The decision comes as district leaders weigh closing seven schools by the end of the current school year to address a projected $25 million in recurring annual expenses.

Superintendent Kevin Hendrick recommended closing seven schools, citing a 25% decline in local birth rates over 35 years that has left more than 45,000 student seats vacant across the district. The proposed changes aim to consolidate resources and optimize school capacity.

Under the amended Tarpon Springs proposal, Sunset Hills Elementary students would move to Tarpon Springs Middle School. Tarpon Springs Fundamental Elementary School would expand into a K-8 institution, using Sunset Hills' current campus. Hendrick stated the plan incorporates extensive community input.

Other schools considered for closure include Lealman Innovation Academy, Kings Highway Elementary, Blanton Elementary, and Bear Creek Elementary. The vote on Sexton Elementary School's potential closure is delayed for further review of alternative options. Community meetings are scheduled this week at affected schools for parents and residents to voice their opinions.