Parents and Community Members Protest Proposed School Closures at BUSD

San Jose, CA — Dozens of parents, students, and community members gathered on November 7th outside the Berryessa Union School District (BUSD) office in a powerful display of unity to protest the district’s proposal to close cherished neighborhood schools.

Attendees voiced deep frustration and anger over the district’s refusal to listen to their concerns and the lack of transparency in the school closure process. Parents, alumni, and community members took turns sharing heartfelt stories, emphasizing the essential role these schools play in providing a quality education for Berryessa’s children through their academic excellence and popular programs.

“We plan to hold our school district accountable for the decisions they’ve made,” said Amit Sewak, a Berryessa parent. They have no governance or oversight and don’t talk to us. We don’t trust them when the best choice they offer us is to close our schools.”

Preetha Krishnan, one of the group's organizers said, “The district needs to seriously evaluate alternative solutions to school closures such as a reduction to non-teaching staff and the sale of surplus district property. Instead their first response is to close schools.”

Throughout the late afternoon, speakers questioned the validity of the district’s data and financial reasoning for the closures. Many argued that the proposal relies on incomplete, flawed data and ignores the profound disruption these closures would bring to students and families. Community members also raised concerns about questionable financial priorities, urging BUSD to conduct a thorough review of its resource management and consider other options.

Key Points Raised by the Community:

• Transparent Decision-Making: Attendees called on the district to engage in open dialogue with parents and provide clear, accurate information on the data and reasoning behind the proposed closures.
  
  
• Educational and Community Impact: Parents and community members stressed that closing would undermine the education of current and future students, and make the Berryessa area less attractive to future residents who come here for top ranking schools.
  
  
• Flawed Data and Questionable Finances: The community believes the district is using inaccurate data and a flawed methodology to assess schools. Additionally, there are concerns about the district's financial management, which has contributed to a $6 million deficit.
  
  

The rally highlighted a community united determined to be heard, demanding a process that respects the voices of those directly impacted. Berryessa families have called on the district to pause any plans to close schools, engage transparently with the community, and explore all alternatives before making a final decision.