Pinellas Schools Pause Sexton Elementary Closure Plan

The Pinellas County School District has postponed its plan to close Sexton Elementary School. Superintendent Kevin Hendrick announced Tuesday he would withdraw the recommendation from the Oct. 13 board meeting agenda. Hendrick intends to revisit the proposal with a new approach and anticipates presenting an updated recommendation no earlier than Oct. 20.

This decision follows a similar revision to a plan impacting schools in Tarpon Springs. Board members commended that earlier adjustment as a sign of the district's responsiveness to community feedback.

Discussions highlighting Sexton Elementary's unique position prompted the re-evaluation. Board members noted the school, operating at 47% capacity, shares its campus with a middle and high school. This existing educational community could potentially accommodate more students and programs, a factor that weighed against closure.

Board Vice Chairperson Dawn Peters acknowledged the district's consideration of community input. "Pinellas County has been thoughtful in taking feedback," Peters said. "It is the most responsible thing we could do. It’s not fair if we don’t." Peters previously supported Sexton's closure, partly due to a potential YMCA relocation to the campus. She emphasized the district's goal to avoid vacant campuses.

However, other board members argued closing Sexton conflicted with the district's promise to offer students equally or better options. Chairperson Caprice Edmond and board member Katie Blaxberg questioned the proposal's viability. Board member Lisa Cane highlighted financial concerns, stating, "Running a school a quarter full makes no sense." The board also agreed to delay any decision impacting Woodlawn Elementary, a historic St. Petersburg neighborhood also under consideration.

Sarah Henley, a parent of a Sexton Elementary student, expressed optimism. "His putting it off shows that they’re at least interested in looking at other options," Henley said. "They’re listening to us." Sexton Elementary may still face closure in the future, but the current pause allows for further community engagement and re-evaluation of the district's consolidation plans.