Parents at Cesar Chavez Academy in Corona say the school's kindergarten through eighth grade program is one of its biggest draws, but that continuity could be eliminated under a proposal now being reviewed by CNUSD.
Only about one in six public elementary schools in California offers students the opportunity to attend the same campus from kindergarten through eighth grade. Parents at Cesar Chavez Academy say that model was a key reason they chose the school.
"It's wonderful knowing your kids have the opportunity to go from kindergarten, all the way to eighth grade. That was one of the biggest perks. A lot of kids who transferred in were also looking at that as a positive," said parent Amanda Cromer.
That option could soon disappear. The district is considering eliminating seventh and eighth grade programs at Cesar Chavez Academy and Home Gardens Academy starting in 2027, citing declining enrollment.
For Danny Cuellar, whose son is currently in fourth grade, the possible change means his child may have to leave the school earlier than expected.
"A lot of times they'll make the decisions based on economics, but it's a very marginal benefit," Cuellar said. "If you're going to punish anybody, it shouldn't be this community, which is struggling."
He said losing the upper grades would force his family to reconsider their plans.
Others worry about the increased travel that would be required to get their children to middle school.
"We would have to be looking at other options," said Cromer. "I do live right across the street, so it was nice to know that my kids would be able to walk home from school, junior high. Now we're going to have to drive a distance because there's no junior high close by."
In a statement, CNUSD said the review is focused on equity across campuses.
"This review is centered on ensuring equitable access to the same academic opportunities and experiences for students in these programs as those available to seventh and eighth grade students in non-academy schools. As part of this commitment, the District regularly reviews programs to support strong academic opportunities and positive learning environments," the statement read in part. "We recognize this conversation may raise questions and want to reassure our community there are no changes planned for the upcoming school year, and any potential future considerations would not occur before the 2027-2028 school year."
Some parents say they are preparing for possible changes, but hope the district considers the impact on families.
"I mean, if it comes down to it and we have to transfer, we'll deal with it. But ideally, I just want what's best for all the families," said parent Reina Wong.
The district is scheduled to host a listening session for parents at Cesar Chavez Academy on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m.