The fate of two Collingswood elementary schools rests in the hands of voters.
Thomas Sharp and James Garfield Elementary are the two oldest schools in the borough. Both schools could close permanently if a bond referendum is held in a special election on Tuesday.
“There’s a big gap opening up on the west side of town where there’s just no accessible school,” said Dorian Adams.
Adams helped organize the Protect Collings Schools movement, a grassroots group fighting the referendum. She said it disinvests the most diverse and economically disadvantaged schools in the district. Adams also argues that it will be more challenging for families in West Collingswood if students have to travel further to and from school.
“A lot of our families are walking, a lot of families are low income and can’t afford a car, and a lot of families have two working parents and can’t necessarily transport a child in one car,” Adams said.
The $44.5 million referendum, made public in March, has caused unrest in the community, with differing views and protest signs popping up all over the neighborhood.
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The plan calls for the 300-plus students at Thomas Sharp and James Garfield Elementary to be relocated to other schools in the district. The former Good Shepherd Regional Catholic School will also be renovated and converted into a fourth- and fifth-grade elementary school.
“We believe this is the best option,” said Fredrick McDowell, superintendent of Collingswood Public Schools.
McDowell said the referendum will help reduce overcrowding in the district and add needed outdoor recreational facilities. He believes it is a benefit to bring students from all walks of life together earlier and said all the schools in the district are walkable.
“Collingswood is 1.9 square miles, and by New Jersey standards a neighborhood school is defined as two square miles,” McDowell said.
If the referendum is passed, the changes will come into effect in September 2027. Polls will be open until 8pm.
This story will be updated after the results are announced on Tuesday evening.
