TUSD proposes six school consolidations

Tucson Unified School District has recommended six school consolidations as it responds to declining enrollment and state funding changes: five mergers are proposed for August 2027, including Magee Middle School with Sabino High School, and Secrist Middle School with Santa Rita High School in August 2028. The Santa Rita plan calls for a separate middle-school academy, with its own building, classes, lunch periods and schedule; district leaders say staff at affected schools can move to other district positions. The proposals remain subject to governing-board review and a final vote, while families and educators have raised concerns about transportation, potential crowding and class sizes, student separation, and whether contingency plans are adequate. Supporters also see possible benefits in continuity and expanded programs, but some parents and community members are disappointed by the closures and worry about the effects on students and neighborhood schools.