Columbus, Georgia

Community Schools Closing Data

Parks and Recreation





Fact Sheet:

The following schools opened in August along with all other schools:

Benning Hills, Brewer, Cusseta, Davis, Fox, Key, South Columbus, Wesley

Heights, Rigdon . These schools had low attendance last year and poor

registration at the beginning of this year.



We met with principals either through phone, personal visit and/or memo,

advising them that the numbers from last year were quite low and that due to

budget constraints we may have to close them if enrollment did not increase.



Staff began canvassing the neighborhood, attending PTA and other gathering

spots for parents and potential participants.



We met with site supervisors and told them that some sites may close if between

twenty and twenty-five participants did not enroll and attend daily, depending

on number of staff, supplies, and wages.



At the end of August weekly balances were tabulated and numbers counted for

enrollment. Schools that fell below the minimum were advised and encouraged to

bring in more students if possible. Flyers were distributed, and school staff

assisted in the process by making our program known.



Parents, staff and school personnel at all other schools were notified to find

other arrangements as of September 18, 2005. Flyers were posted stating the

closing of the site and staff advised parents daily of the need to make

alternative arrangements..



We met with parents and employees, assisted in finding other arrangements for

participants, and encouraged continued support for Parks and Recreation

programming. Friday, September 18, 2005 the sites closed at six o?clock p.m.



There has been no negative feedback nor complaints from citizens or

participants. One principal has expressed interest in keeping the program

going; however, he understands our budget constraints. Most of the participants

had found alternative care prior too Friday closing.



We polled those leaving and found that most went to Open Door, Head Start, or

private baby sitters.