November 11, 2004

Castillero: Saved by the Bell
Task Force suggests Castillero remain open, Steinbeck to close

By Kymberli W. Brady
Staff Writer

What a difference a day makes. Really, it was more like an afternoon. After a couple of weeks spent poring over documents, making phone calls, listening to impassioned pleas, and watching the Almaden community evolve from shock to rage and fear to grassroots determination—with a refreshing dose of unity thrown in—the story was done and on its way to editing.

Less than two hours later, a press release changed the landscape completely and most assuredly settled many a frenzied nerve.

San Jose Unified’s School Consolidation Advisory Task Force, including 15 community members, faced the arduous task of deciding in good conscience which of three middle schools to close, based on school neighborhood capacity, transportation, traffic flow, potential facility use, and population trends.

Castillero did not draw the short straw in this decision. District staff, after reviewing the committee’s report, has decided to recommend that Steinbeck Middle School close its doors next June.

John Muir will inherit Steinbeck’s laptop program and all of its current sixth and seventh grade students. Those who live in the new Castillero attendance boundary area will be able to choose either middle school.

According to Judi Armacost, something was in the air, as Principal Sandy Engel met with school board members and then announced that she would be attending the “Save Castillero” meeting Tuesday evening.

“There were quite a few questions about boundaries, enrollment, etc.,” she said. “Sandy Engel spoke for a bit—she was very appreciate of our efforts.”

“As a previous Castillero student myself, I am relieved that my kids will not be missing out on the wonderful culture and exceptional programs that Castillero has provided for so long,” exclaimed Castillero parent of two Kelli McElravy.

And with two of her own enrolled as well, Anita Adams couldn’t have been more relieved.

“I’m just so happy for the children—children who love to come to this great school every day.”

But some, including Caroline Taylor, couldn’t help but wonder what the mood was like a couple of miles away.

“I feel very bad for Steinbeck families,” she said. “Of course, I’m relieved and grateful that we are out of the situation for now. But the truth is, I find it still amazing that in the year 2004, we don’t know how to figure out school funding so we don’t have to go through this. We’re looking forward to welcoming the new students next year, including my own son!”

Although the decision won’t be final until after the board hears community concerns and takes action on the recommendation Dec. 9, two additional evenings have been set aside for public comment. All three are shown below,

November 15, 2004: PUBLIC FORUM – Staff recommendation on Middle School Consolidation 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. – District Office, 855 Lenzen Ave., San Jose, Room 129.

November 18, 2004: PUBLIC HEARING – Middle School Consolidation Recommendation – Board meeting, first reading – 6:30 p.m. District Office, 855 Lenzen Ave., San Jose, Room 129.

December 9, 2004: PUBLIC HEARING – Middle School Consolidation Recommendation – Board Action, second reading – 6:30 p.m. District Office, 855 Lenzen Ave., San Jose, Room 129.

The public has the opportunity to speak at Board of Education meetings.