The Pinellas County School Board voted on February 24, 2026, to approve a set of changes that will close two schools and reconfigure several others. These decisions mark the first phase of the district’s multi-year “Planning for Progress” initiative. The adjustments take effect at the conclusion of the 2025-2026 school year.
Declining enrollment stands at the core of the plan. Pinellas County has experienced a steady drop in school-age children over recent years. This trend—coupled with rising operational costs and aging facilities—has left many campuses underutilized. District leaders emphasize the need to maintain sustainable, high-quality learning environments while managing resources responsibly.
Superintendent Kevin Hendrick and staff presented recommendations in January 2026 following community input sessions held in late 2025. More than 600 stakeholders participated in those discussions. The proposals underwent further review at a school board workshop on February 17 before reaching the final vote.
The approved actions include the closure of Cross Bayou Elementary School and Disston Academy. Students from these schools will be rezoned to nearby institutions. Cross Bayou’s exceptional student education program will transition to a K-8 configuration elsewhere. The district intends to sell or lease the Cross Bayou property after closure.
Additional changes involve consolidation and expansion. Bay Point Elementary and Bay Point Middle will combine into a single K-8 school on the middle school campus, with implementation planned for the 2027-2028 school year. Oldsmar Elementary will expand to serve grades K-8. The employee child care program will extend to McMullen-Booth Elementary.
These measures aim to reduce recurring annual expenses by an estimated $7.7 million while requiring a one-time capital investment of approximately $2.4 million. Officials describe the steps as essential to align facilities with current and projected student populations.
The “Planning for Progress” initiative continues beyond this round. A broader set of recommendations is expected in fall 2026, with further implementation anticipated in subsequent years. District officials have committed to ongoing communication with families, staff, and community members throughout the process.
The February 24 decision followed public meetings and opportunities for stakeholder feedback. It reflects a deliberate effort to address demographic realities and legislative considerations affecting school facilities. Pinellas County Schools maintains that these changes support long-term stability and educational quality for all students.
This first phase represents a measured response to persistent challenges. Future phases will build on the data and community insights gathered to date. The district directs those seeking additional details to its dedicated Planning for Progress resources online.
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