The photo at the left is the  Livermore Centennial bulb, the world's longest-burning electric bulb. 

The Dim Bulb

The Occasional Musings of an Educator

by Michael Keany

#79 - April 19, 2025, 2025

The brain is capable of performing 10 quadrillion (that’s 10 to the 16th) “calculations,” or synaptic events, per second using only about 15 watts of power. At this rate, a computer as powerful as the human brain would require 1 gigawatt of power. Maybe a dim bulb isn't as dim as it seems.

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Interview Question:

In my interview for a superintendent's position I was asked this question: We are anticipating the closing of one of our five elementary schools due to declining enrollment. Please outline the steps that you would take to make this decision keeping in mind the need to involve the community and staff.

Navigating School Closure with Transparency, Compassion, and Community Involvement

When asked in a superintendent interview how I would handle the potential closure of one of five elementary schools due to declining enrollment, I emphasized that such a decision—while fiscally and operationally necessary—requires a careful, inclusive, and data-informed process grounded in trust, transparency, and equity. School closures are not just logistical changes—they represent deep emotional and historical shifts for families, staff, and neighborhoods. My approach would involve a multi-phase strategy to ensure that all voices are heard and that the final decision is supported by a clear rationale and a shared sense of purpose.

1. Conduct a Comprehensive Data Analysis

Before any recommendation is made, I would lead a thorough review of enrollment trends, capacity data, building conditions, transportation implications, budget constraints, and projected demographics. This analysis would involve both internal and external experts to ensure credibility. I would also assess the educational impact on students, including program continuity, class sizes, and specialized services.

This data would be compiled into a public-facing summary—visually clear, accessible, and updated in real time—so that community stakeholders could understand the "why" behind the need to consider school consolidation.

2. Form a School Closure Advisory Committee

I would establish a broad-based committee composed of staff, parents, union leaders, civic leaders, and community representatives from each elementary school. The purpose of this advisory group would be to examine the data, generate options, anticipate unintended consequences, and serve as ambassadors in the broader community.

This team would meet regularly and be tasked with evaluating criteria for closure, such as proximity to other schools, facility condition, student displacement, community use of the building, and long-term sustainability.

3. Facilitate Transparent and Empathetic Communication

A public communication plan would be launched early in the process. This would include a dedicated web page, regular newsletters, open forums, and a schedule of community meetings at each affected school. It is vital to create multiple avenues for public input—including surveys, in-person comments, and written submissions.

I would hold listening sessions with teachers and staff at each site to understand their concerns and ideas. Staff are often the most trusted messengers to families, and their engagement is key to a smooth transition.

4. Evaluate Options and Present Recommendations

After gathering extensive input and fully reviewing the implications, I would work with the advisory committee to finalize a recommendation for the Board of Education. The recommendation would include not just which school may close, but also the supports that would be provided to students, staff, and families during the transition—such as counseling services, transportation adjustments, staff reassignment plans, and efforts to preserve school identity and legacy.

5. Create a Transition and Legacy Plan

Once a decision is made, I would initiate a robust transition plan that includes family welcome events at receiving schools, integration of PTOs and school cultures, and dedicated support for students with special needs or complex family situations. I would also honor the history of the closing school with a legacy project—such as a commemorative mural, time capsule, or digital archive.

6. Monitor Impact and Adjust

Finally, I would establish a monitoring team to review the impacts of the transition on student outcomes, staff morale, transportation efficiency, and enrollment trends. The board and community would receive periodic updates, and any emerging issues would be addressed with transparency.

In summary, school closures are challenging, but when guided by shared values—honesty, inclusion, responsiveness, and student-first thinking—they can become opportunities to strengthen community trust and educational excellence.