Background
A Thoughtful Transition to School Consolidation and Property Lease
The challenging decision to close a school was made with great care and deliberation with a commitment to do what was best for all students across the district. Recognizing each school’s unique impact within each community, this decision was not taken lightly, viewing it as part of a broader strategy to support sustainable, high-quality education for every student.
A Comprehensive Review: Looking at the Whole Picture
The closure process began in 2021 with an in-depth review of the District’s needs as a whole. The Board aimed to balance resources, programs, and opportunities to ensure that each of our students could thrive. Taking a District-wide approach helped the Board consider both current and future needs, leading to a decision that would be beneficial for all students. Throughout this review, the District prioritized community and parent engagement. Multiple town hall meetings, listening sessions, public hearings, and surveys gave families, staff, and community members a platform to share their perspectives, reflecting our commitment to gathering broad input from all corners of the district.
Making the Decision Together
During the process, the District provided regular updates and organized open forums for dialogue. Parents, community members, and staff came together to share perspectives, ask questions, and offer ideas about how we could continue to best serve our students and families. While the decision to close the school was difficult, the board maintained its focus on securing the best possible outcomes for all its students, District-wide.
Moving Forward with a Purpose: Leasing the Property for the Benefit of All District Stakeholders
Following the closure decision, the District moved forward with a thorough process to determine the future of the property. This led to the formation of the Asset Management Advisory Committee (AMAC) whose role was to advise the Board regarding use or disposition options for the property. And, in June 2022, the AMAC formally submitted their report to the Board of Education for review and consideration. This report included recommendations to offer the property at market value, for sale or lease or further assess best options for the Property, to prioritize the best financial and operational interests of the District, and for staff to keep the Board informed of its efforts.
In November 2022, the District approved the consideration of proposals to enter into agreements to develop the Andres Duarte site for joint occupancy (Resolution 06-22-23), and also entered into an Agreement for Professional Real Estate Brokerage Services for Real Property with JLL. The District believes the lease option also ensures that the property would remain a positive, vibrant presence in the community.
In March 2024, the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement with Crestfield Townhomes, LLC, an affiliate of Adept/MW Investment Group to Develop A Portion of Real Property Located at 1433 Crestfield Drive, in the City of Duarte, California 91010 For Joint Occupancy was approved.
A Community Vision
Though the school's closure marked the end of a chapter, our commitment to the community’s voice and the Board’s dedication to serving all students guided each step. Together, we are charting a new course for the property that respects its past and embraces a future filled with promises for all our Duarte Unified School District community.