Closing S.F. schools is not worth the cost of what the city would lose
Regarding “S.F. teachers like me have a new contract. Some schools will need to close to pay for it” (Open Forum, SFChronicle.com, Feb. 19): The Open Forum doesn’t address how much money would be saved by closing schools. It’s been reported that the estimated $22 million in savings is “not much.”
Students, families and communities need public schools open in their neighborhoods. They’re resource hubs for the kids and keep neighborhoods happy and healthy.
Having a consistent and supportive school site also bolsters attendance and improves student outcomes.
As the Trump administration slashes funding for public schools, we in San Francisco should be doing everything we can to protect our students’ right to equitable public education. How do school closures fit into that?
I always hear Mayor Daniel Lurie talking about how we’re a “city on the rise.” To me, that sounds like a city with robust public schools, public transit and public services. Not a place where public schools are closed without a strong financial reason.
Letters: Closing S.F. schools is not worth the cost of what the city would lose
By Olivia McHaney | SF Chronicle | February 23rd, 2026