Lake County Gazette

On June 26, the North Shore School District 112 Board of Education approved the consolidation of the K-5 dual language program at Oak Terrace Elementary School and the closure of Red Oak Elementary. The district will phase in the consolidation, beginning with kindergarten in 2026-2027 and fully transitioning all K-5 dual language program students by 2027-2028, with Red Oak Elementary School closing after the 2026-2027 school year.

Board members described the vote as one of their most difficult decisions, citing deep community ties to Red Oak and the district’s commitment to bilingual education. They emphasized that their decision is based on what is best for students and the long-term success of the program.

“The district’s primary obligation is to provide every student with the highest quality education possible,” said Board President Art Kessler during the meeting. “A strong two-way dual language program relies on balanced, full cohorts of Spanish- and English-speaking students. When enrollment declines significantly, as has occurred in our district consistently, maintaining that crucial balance is no longer possible across two separate sites. ”

Board member Lori Fink, who opposed consolidation, said at a June 10 meeting, “While we may not all agree, I respect the process and perspectives around this table. I will support the final decision of the Board and remain committed to working collaboratively on behalf of all students and families in our district. ”

Since 2018, overall K-5 dual language enrollment has declined by 29 percent — from 729 students to 522 — with Spanish-speaking English learner enrollment projected to drop another 21 percent over the next decade according to a recent demographic study. In kindergarten alone, Spanish EL enrollment fell from 50 students in 2018 to 33 in 2024—a34 percent decrease. President Kessler noted that these trends are part of broader demographic shifts in Highland Park and Highwood communities and are unlikely to reverse soon.

The Board’s decision follows years of monitoring enrollment, multiple public meetings, and a third-party program review conducted by Dr. Sonia Soltero earlier this year. The Board and district administration stressed that consolidating the program will help preserve its educational and cultural integrity.

“History demonstrates that consolidated programs often become stronger,” said President Kessler. “Consolidation is an opportunity to strengthen a program that has been central to our district's identity.”

Oak Terrace was selected as the consolidated site due to its capacity, recent facility upgrades, and proximity to more Spanish-speaking families. District leaders confirmed there are no plans to increase class sizes or overcrowd classrooms as a result of this transition.

A two-year transition period will begin immediately with a task force composed of families and staff guiding future efforts. The district also plans additional investments in Oak Terrace including new furniture enhanced outdoor spaces updated playground equipment.

The decision followed extensive public engagement including many heartfelt comments from families staff community members who voiced strong opposition Board members acknowledged passion perspectives shared recognizing impact this decision will have on Red Oak community

“I understand that a decision consolidate will not please everyone ” President Kessler said “However I believe that five years when we look back at this moment we recognize consolidating our dual language program at Oak Terrace was right choice for our students community”

More information about this decision transition process can be found at www.nssd112.org/dual-language-transition. That page be updated regularly as district moves through transition over next two years ###