St Lucie Schools to Merge 3 Campuses into Modern Facility

New K-8 School Proposal Aims to Transform Learning Experience in St. Lucie County

St. Lucie County is preparing for a major transformation in its educational landscape with the introduction of a new proposal by St. Lucie Public Schools. The plan involves merging three existing schools into one modern K-8 facility, aiming to provide a more cohesive and efficient learning environment for students.

On Tuesday afternoon, the school board gathered to discuss the initiative, which would see Lawnwood Elementary School, St. Lucie Elementary School, and Dan McCarty Middle School consolidated into a single campus. This move is expected to bring together hundreds of students under one roof, offering a more unified approach to education.

Superintendent Jon R. Prince emphasized that the goal is to reimagine the educational experience in older communities within the district. “Every child deserves a first-class quality education,” he stated. “What we’re trying to do is reimagine some of the schools in some of our north area and older communities.”

The new school will be constructed on the current site of Dan McCarty Middle School, adjacent to Dale Cassens Alternative School. This strategic location could help streamline operations and improve access for families in the surrounding areas.

Benefits for Families and Students

One of the key advantages of the new K-8 school is the potential for family benefits. Parents can expect consistent drop-off and pick-up times for all students, allowing siblings to stay together for a longer period. This change could reduce the number of school transitions, making it easier for families to manage their schedules.

However, not all parents are convinced. Some have raised concerns about the integration of younger and older students. Kelmesha Davis, a parent of students in the system, expressed her reservations. “I don’t think that small should be with bigger kids,” she said. “This area is already full of crime, and we know that. So it’s like the bigger kids, they’re exposed to more.”

Anna Carty, a graduate of one of the schools involved in the proposal, has mixed feelings. “This is gonna be good for some people or not so good for some people,” she said. “Yes, it’s great that sister and brothers can be in a location together, however we don’t know if they can always look out for each other at school.”

Financial and Operational Considerations

The project is estimated to cost between $68 and $74 million. Part of this investment will go toward expanding gifted programs at the middle school level, ensuring that advanced learners have access to enhanced opportunities.

District leaders have assured the community that no staff members will lose their jobs during the transition. Instead, employees will either be relocated to the new K-8 school or assigned to another school within the district. This approach aims to maintain stability and continuity for both educators and students.

Resident Sabrina Taylor shared her evolving perspective on the proposal. Initially skeptical, she has become more open to the idea as she learns more about the plans. “Now that we continue to interface more with the superintendent and the staff in the school board members, they give us an opportunity to really have that input and learn more,” she said. “It’s nice that they’ve changed that is coming.”

Future Outlook

Superintendent Prince expressed hope that the two elementary school properties will be sold, with the proceeds potentially used to support the new K-8 school. If everything goes according to plan, the new facility could be completed by 2028.

As the proposal moves forward, the focus remains on creating a modern, inclusive, and effective learning environment that meets the needs of students, families, and the broader community. The success of this initiative will depend on continued collaboration, transparency, and a commitment to providing high-quality education for all.