VB considers closing schools

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Virginia Beach has never closed down a school, but now, to save money the school system is considering the possibility.

Don Greer Chairs the Building Utilization Committee that will meet Tuesday to begin a process to see which school, if any, closes.

"We're going to take our time. We will not pull one out, and say this is the one we are closing," Greer said.

Letters sent home to parents about possible school closings reads in part, "...the school system is developing options or recommendations regarding potential closure, consolidation, and transfer of schools and or citywide programs."

"This is a long range process, we are going to be open and transparent. We will objectively apply criteria to narrow a list down," continued Greer.

The criteria includes:

1. Membership and capacity
2. Facility condition
3. Geographic location

Della Doughty is a perfect example of the resistance Greer's committee will likely get.Her son Divine goes to College Park Elementary School which has one the smallest student populations.

"They're doing fine where they are...do not close any of them. Don't close any of the schools. We will fight together to keep them open," explained Doughty.

The BUC meets Tuesday at 4 p.m. at the Virginia Beach Public School System, Building #16 at the City Hall Complex.