Markham Colocation Update, April 22
Dear Markham staff and families,
In last week’s message, we shared the many factors we’ve been considering as we craft a temporary fall relocation plan for Markham staff and students. Those factors include physical proximity to the Markham school building, age-appropriate learning environments for K-5 students, and sufficient classroom and common area space to allow everyone to come back together again as one school community.
With the above factors in mind, we have weighed the advantages and disadvantages of various potential sites, focusing primarily on district properties because, unlike community college buildings or other nearby locations, they have already been modified to meet the many needs of young students and keep them safe.
The sites under consideration include:
Smith School
Advantages:
Physical proximity to the Markham community
Currently vacant
Disadvantages:
Existing building is condemned.
Would require the installation of 20 portable classrooms.
Would require additional space requirements for a cafeteria and a kitchen
Extremely unlikely to pass safety inspections.
Kenton campus
Advantages:
Existing building large enough to accommodate staff and students
Disadvantages
Transportation – estimated bus trip would be 1.5 hours for most students.
Capitol Hill, Hayhurst, Rieke, Maplewood colocation
Advantages
Many students and staff will already be familiar with these sites.
Disadvantages
Markham community would remain divided.
Several staff members would have to continue to commute between multiple campuses.
Jackson Middle School
Advantages
Close proximity to the Markham community
Sufficient classrooms and common areas to house all Markham students inside the building.
Restroom, cafeteria, gymnasium access
Ample bus parking and circulation space
Already set up to accommodate a colocation (has been hosting Gray students since January).
Disadvantages
Limited space for play.
In the course of reviewing the above factors, it has become clear that the best option available to us is for Markham to temporarily colocate with Jackson until the remediation and repairs are completed at Markham.
We understand that some families and staff might have concerns about bringing elementary school students onto the campus of a middle school, but we are fully committed to ensuring that Markham students and staff are supported, and have everything they need to thrive.
As we mentioned in our previous message, we have scheduled a virtual community meeting for this Thursday, April 25 from 5-6 p.m. during which time district leaders will answer questions about how this decision was made and what it means for Markham staff, students, and families. You can join the meeting here. In the meantime, you are welcome to pose questions and comments on Markham’s Let’s Talk page.
We appreciate your continued support and flexibility, and look forward to seeing you on Thursday.
Sincerely,
Derek Johnston, Senior Director of Schools
Steven Smith, Senior Project Manager, Facilities & Operations
