10/02/2026
This evening the Olathe Public Schools BOE acted on a recommendation that is extremely difficult for our community and for us. This action came after months of study, data review, conversations, and discernment. It is fiscally responsible and provides a path forward for OPS students, staff and community. What made it difficult? The people. We know the personal impact of this decision to so many. The members of the BOE are all parents and grandparents, and some of us educators. We know how people in Olathe love their schools and teachers.
We understand and value how important schools are in the lives of children and families. We know relationships are at the core of a school community and that there is comfort in what is “known.” This understanding and the value we place on our schools and education is the reason we are in the seats at the dais.
Although information regarding the impacts of declining enrollment and underfunding of our school district has been publicly shared on a regular basis beginning in April 2025 through September 2026 by district leadership, we also understand that until it touches one on a personal level it is easy not to look too closely. We, however, have been experiencing it on a personal level for months and years as we have been asked to make decisions and review district cuts in staffing, school budgets, and the transfer of general funds to cover the underfunding of Special Education. There was an effort to solve the challenges through other methods before reaching the conclusion we needed to look at facility alignment.
I hope the presentation this evening, which summarized the information that has been presented over the last several years, but most intentionally since April 2025, clearly articulates the work that has been done in the background to be prepared for next steps if the BOE took the action we did this evening. These plans demonstrate the value we place on the students, staff, and community of Olathe Public Schools.
We share in your sorrow of losing what is familiar to you and your student. Change is difficult and sometimes sad. But it is part of life and is also an opportunity to grow. There is a plan in place to assist with the transition and growth. We will tap the experience and expertise of school staff and communities who have walked this path before you.
A common theme to the communication shared by parents during the last month has been the wonderful experiences, quality education, and personal support offered at “our” schools. If you speak with individuals at other schools in the district, you will hear that same sentiment. We are Olathe Public Schools because of the people. The next few months will provide opportunity to celebrate what has been and to create new Olathe Public School communities.
Thank you to the members of the Task Force and Steering Committee for their time and input, and to all the parents who have communicated in writing or in person. We have read and listened to your thoughts and appreciate your engagement and passion for your child’s education.
