Cleveland Schools to Close 23 Buildings, Merge Campuses in Major Restructuring
The Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) has announced a sweeping restructuring plan that will close 23 school buildings and consolidate dozens more, the district’s largest overhaul in decades.
CEO Warren Morgan said the changes are necessary as CMSD confronts declining enrollment, rising operating costs, and a looming $150 million deficit. Enrollment has fallen from 70,000 students in 2000 to 34,000 today, leaving the district operating far beyond its current needs.
The plan, expected to take effect before the 2026–2027 school year, would reduce CMSD’s footprint from 61 PreK–8 schools to 45, and from 27 high schools to 14. About 18 CMSD-owned buildings and five leased school spaces would be phased out.
Many schools will merge into better-maintained buildings, and some specialized programs will continue under consolidated campuses.
District leaders say the restructuring will save at least $30 million annually, primarily through reduced administrative costs.
Morgan noted that most students will stay with their school communities as they move, and 95% will transition into buildings in stronger physical condition. He added that consolidations will expand academic and extracurricular opportunities.
While some staffing changes are expected, Morgan said the number of teachers should remain relatively stable. Additional administrative cuts are being planned to balance CMSD finances.
The school board is expected to vote on the consolidation plan on December 9, following a year of community engagement.
A list of K–8 and high school mergers and relocations was provided as outlined by CMSD.
This restructuring touches core principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, including children’s rights to quality education, safe learning environments, and access to development-enhancing opportunities.
Ensuring that relocated students receive consistent academic support and emotional stability will be key to protecting their well-being through the transition.
