Beaverton School District is in the process of redrawing the middle school boundaries, set to begin in 2021-22. This process will have a dramatic effect not only on our boundaries, but also on our community and school funding.
It is very important that parents become involved in this process and voice their opinions and concerns over potential changes.
The Nuts and Bolts
The newest middle school is located within Cedar Park’s boundary, meaning many of our current feeder schools may be rezoned. The current round of maps have our boundaries fluctuating wildly. This most recent committee packet and test maps can be found on the BSD Middle School Boundary adjustment page (scroll to the most current meeting date).
Are Smaller Schools Always Better?
Not necessarily. There is a sweet spot for enrollment in a middle school. About 1000 students allows for a wide range of electives. When schools have fewer students, elective choices are reduced. Smaller enrollment could mean the elimination of drama, art or greatly reduced student elective choices.
Ensuring Diversity
The current maps are varying widely at all the middle schools on the issue of economic diversity. Diversity of all kinds should be a factor in the creation of the final boundary map because all our schools win when a wide range of students bring their experiences to every school.
How Can Parents Get Involved
1) Attend a meeting and speak out in support of Cedar Park:
Thursday, January 30th at 6:30pm at Meadow Park Middle School
Thursday, February 13th at 6:30pm at Five Oaks Middle School
2) Familiarize yourself with the process and potential changes and share feedback with the boundary committee online.
3) Propose solutions. Many options are available to the boundary committee to balance enrollment, including moving option programs like Rachel Carson or SUMMA. Please share any solutions you think of with your friends and neighbors and encourage them to speak up.
Thank you so much for staying involved. Cedar Park is a wonderful community and together we can ensure its success for years to come.
To learn more about the boundary process, head to the BSD Middle School Boundary adjustment page to view materials, watch committee meetings, and leave online feedback.
