Parents in the Long Beach School District voiced their frustrations and concerns at a tense school board meeting, challenging the district's ongoing discussions about possibly closing East Elementary School.

The debate over East Elementary has been simmering for nearly a year, initially sparked by fears of losing crucial state funding, followed by worries about declining enrollment. But the idea of closing the school remains a point of contention in the community.

Adding to the unrest was a presentation about a proposed bond to fund improvements to other schools in the district.

Parent Joanne Kapp expressed the widespread discontent.

"What we just saw was a lot of things coming, while my community is facing a closure of a school. It is almost a slap in the face to this community," she said.

Despite the growing tensions, the Long Beach School Board President Sam Pinto attempted to reassure parents that no final decisions had been made.

“It’s not anyone’s agenda to take away from anyone. We’re grappling with trying to make the best decisions with the circumstances,” Pinto stated, adding that uncertainty about future state and federal funding makes it difficult to make definitive plans.

Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Gallagher also addressed the community’s concerns, revealing that the district is exploring alternative uses for the East Elementary building, including possibly renting it out.

She confirmed that the school board will likely make a decision on the school’s future at the next meeting.