South Phoenix School Solutions Proposal
A Comprehensive, Community-Driven Plan for Roosevelt Elementary School District

Introduction

In the face of financial challenges, Roosevelt Elementary School District (RSD) has been presented with proposals to close schools as a way to address budget deficits. However, closures are short-term fixes that exacerbate long-term issues, including enrollment declines, community disengagement, and financial instability. This proposal offers a holistic, community-focused approach to achieving financial sustainability while preserving the district’s educational and community impact.

Comprehensive Solutions

1. Revenue-Generating Strategies
Affordable Housing Development:
 

• Partner with the Phoenix Industrial Development Authority (IDA) to develop affordable housing on underutilized district land.
   

• This initiative could generate $2.5 million annually while stabilizing enrollment by creating housing for families within the district.
   

• Case Study: Isaac School District successfully implemented this strategy, increasing local enrollment by 8% and generating $3 million annually.
   

Leasing Unused Facilities:
 

• Rent underutilized classrooms and buildings to nonprofits, charter schools, and businesses.
   

• Projected revenue: $800,000 annually.
   

• Example: Current tenants like Brooks Academy already contribute $75,000 annually, demonstrating the potential for scaling this model.
   

Community Partnerships and Shared Services:
 

• Collaborate with neighboring districts to consolidate administrative functions and share transportation, IT, and other operational costs.
   

• Projected revenue or savings: $500,000 annually.
   

2. Cost-Saving Initiatives
Administrative Efficiency:
 

• RESD spends $1,213 per pupil on administrative costs, exceeding peer district averages by $94.
   

• Aligning administrative expenses with benchmarks could save $1.2 million annually.
   

• Plan: Consolidate redundant roles, streamline reporting processes, and integrate technology solutions to improve efficiency.
   

Energy Efficiency Overhaul:
 

• Retrofit schools with solar panels and LED lighting, modeled after Kyrene School District’s successful program.
   

• Projected savings: $900,000 annually.

• Long-term savings grow as energy costs continue to rise, making this a critical investment.
   

Transportation Optimization:

• RESD spends $18.05 per mile on transportation—nearly double the peer district average.

• Implement routing software and optimize fleet usage to reduce costs.
   

Operational Streamlining:
 

• Limit non-essential travel and renegotiate vendor contracts for services like food delivery, janitorial supplies, and IT equipment.
   

• Projected savings: $550,000 annually.
   

3. Enrollment and Re-enrollment Strategies
Charter Recapture Campaign:
 

• Target the 9,000 students currently attending charter schools within the district boundaries.
   

• Plan: Develop a robust marketing campaign emphasizing small class sizes, unique programs, and community focus.
   

• Goal: Recapture 15% of charter students, adding $4.8 million annually in per-pupil funding.
   

Homeschool and ESA Hubs:
 

• Convert portions of underutilized campuses into hubs for homeschoolers and families using Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESAs).
   

• This initiative could generate $1.5 million annually while strengthening community ties.
   

Community Schools Model:
 

• Expand wraparound services, such as tutoring, healthcare, and after-school programs, to attract and retain families.
   

• Case Study: Cincinnati Public Schools increased enrollment by 18% with a similar model.
   

4. Program Expansions
USDA Feeding Program Expansion:
 

• Increase participation in federally reimbursed meal programs, including breakfast, lunch, and after-school snacks.
   

• Potential revenue: $800,000 annually.
   

Magnet and Specialty School Development:
 

• Develop STEM, arts, and dual-language magnet programs to attract new families.
   

• Projected revenue: $1.2 million annually.
   

5. Long-Term Investments

Rainy-Day Fund Utilization and Replenishment:
 

• Current reserve: $4.3 million. Annual replenishment: $1.2 million.
   

• Plan: Strategically invest a portion of these funds into programs that generate recurring revenue and reduce operational inefficiencies.
   

Land Development Strategy:
 

• Conduct a comprehensive assessment of district-owned land for potential redevelopment. This includes affordable housing, mixed-use developments, or renewable energy projects.
   

6. Community Engagement and Transparency

Community-Led Committees:
 

• Formalize and empower community-led committees to provide oversight and accountability for all proposed strategies.
   

Transparency in Decision-Making:
 

• Publish detailed analyses, timelines, and progress updates for all initiatives.
   

• Ensure stakeholders have meaningful opportunities to provide input.
   

Timeline Considerations:
 

• Acknowledge that the first community committee discussion occurred just one month ago. Moving forward, the district must prioritize thorough planning and inclusive engagement to avoid rushed decision-making.
  
   

Projected Financial Impact (5-Year Total)
CategoryAnnual Savings/Revenue ($)5-Year Total ($)

Administrative Reductions
1.2 million6 million
Energy Savings900,0004.5 million
Affordable Housing Revenue2.5 million12.5 million
Enrollment Growth6.3 million31.5 million
Magnet Programs1.2 million6 million
USDA Feeding Expansion800,0004 million
Total12.9 million64.5 million
Call to Action
This proposal is not about quick fixes or political expediency—it’s about sustainable solutions that preserve our schools and protect our communities. By adopting these strategies, RESD can emerge stronger, more innovative, and better equipped to serve its students and families.
Let’s reject the false choice between fiscal responsibility and educational excellence. We can—and must—achieve both.