Emerson Elementary School
Parent Teacher Association
Advocate for Emerson
Emerson is a public elementary school in Salt Lake City, Utah that is currently on a list for potential closure despite the fact that it is a top performing school in the state and has been nationally recognized due to its academic and special education programs.
Our mission is to create a hub for gathering and sharing information about Emerson with a passionate determination to ensure its continued operation.
Per the school district's policy, "all applicable factors will be considered" regarding school closures, including but not limited to the following:
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Enrollment data
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Facility capacity and design
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School feeder patterns (the movement of students into higher level schools)
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Federal, state, or court mandates
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Community input
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Student safety
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Transportation capacity
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Community and neighborhood identity
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Geographic features of the district
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Special program facilities
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Environmental factors
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Demographics
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Aesthetics
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Financial implications
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Educational programs
Accessibility & Safety
Emerson is not in a major thoroughfare like 700 East so students are not playing by busy roads or having to cross 6-car lane traffic to get to/from school. Emerson still serves a lot of students in the neighborhood and a lot of parents in the community bike or walk their kids to/from school (some, out of necessity). Emerson is the only school in the district with two aftercare programs within .5 miles of walking distance from the school (St John's CCDC Sugarhouse and Arte Primero Studios). Classes are able to have safe walking field trips around the community (Free Little Libraries, parks, post office, etc.). The city is also improving 1100 East near Emerson to “provide safety improvements, traffic calming features, and bicycle lanes along the corridor.”
Enrollment Trends
Emerson continues to serve a significant number of students from its local neighborhood. As per the district's definition of “right-sized elementary school,” Emerson maintains a ratio of about three teachers per grade and offers full-day kindergarten classes. In Utah, parents have the choice of open enrollment and many choose Emerson for its commitment to excellence. Despite declining enrollment rates cited as a reason for potential closures, Emerson operates at 85% student capacity, marking the second-highest enrollment rate within the Salt Lake City School District. The table sourced from the State Board of Education emphasizes Emerson with a green highlight. In contrast, other schools on the list for potential closure are marked in orange.
Proximity to Other Schools
In Central City, a staggering four out of the seven schools find themselves on the list "recommended for further study for potential closure." Among them, Emerson and Hawthorne, situated in close proximity, face an uncertain future. Additionally, Bennion and Wasatch are also part of this list. Notably, these four schools represent a substantial portion of the city, from lower Avenues to Sugarhouse. The potential loss of these four schools would significantly impact the fabric of this area, which can also be challenging to fill in the future. Emerson is a vital cornerstone of our community.
Cost to Operate (building, utilities, etc.)
Emerson has recently invested in upgrades that made the school energy-efficient, with energy-saving lights and an installation of solar panels. These enhancements are projected to lower the school's energy costs, ensuring a greener and more eco-conscious future. Beyond its commitment to sustainability, Emerson thrives as a close-knit and proactive community. The dedication of parents, teachers, and supporters knows no bounds, as evidenced by consistently surpassing fundraising goals. This remarkable achievement not only demonstrates unwavering community support but also paves the way for enriching educational experiences. Emerson parents volunteer at the school every day. Their active involvement not only fosters an inspiring learning environment where students flourish but also serves as a cost-saving measure for the school. With dedicated volunteers generously giving their time and talents, the school can allocate resources more efficiently, redirecting funds towards enriching educational programs and further enhancing the student experience. Students are nurtured by the care and encouragement of those around them, benefiting from the invaluable contributions of our dedicated volunteers.
Community Input
Ask the School Board:
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Will the district keep the land if Emerson closes?
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How much will it cost to close Emerson? What will happen to the "money saved" from closing Emerson?
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It does not take overnight to rebuild programs in other schools. Emerson is home to a number of established academic and special education programs. What is the timeline to rebuild those programs in which other schools?
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What school would the Emerson neighborhood students go to if Emerson closes? How is the district going to ensure that support for students who are enrolled in Emerson because of its special education programs will be readily available in another school?
Other things to note:
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Emerson has a diverse student body as the neighborhood children come from different socioeconomic backgrounds (mixed-income families, renters/property owners, parents with varying jobs they can impart with the student body, etc.). The students are also exposed to different abilities/neurodiversity as teachers, administrators, and staff encourage collaboration of its students.
The Emerson student body embodies this statement: “The idea of public education depends absolutely on the existence of shared narratives and the exclusion of narratives that lead to alienation and divisiveness.” -Neil Postman, author/educator -
The Emerson community values clean air, inclusion, and progress. The city is already trying to better bridge Central City and the east with projects like 900 South Reconstruction and Kensington Byway; Emerson is between these projects.
Attend a Meeting
Attend one of the public open houses to be held this fall. SLCSD will advertise these events once details are finalized and approved. Look for more information on the district social media channels (@slcschools on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter).
Participate in a Discussion
Sign up to provide public comment during a Board of Education meeting by following the steps outlined on our website
Contact
Like what you see? Get in touch to learn more.