Preserve Lakewood Schools
Email the Board of Education
The Board of Education (School Board) members are elected officials and should be tuned into the voices of Lakewood.
Lakewood's school board is currently considering whether to repurpose (close) one or even two of Lakewood's neighborhood elementary schools. Schools being considered for repurposing (closure) are Grant, Lincoln, and Roosevelt. The school board plans to vote in May 2025 on whether to repurpose (close) up to two elementary schools.
You can contact your school board members with your opinion anytime! Send them an email with how repurposing (closing) one or even two elementary schools would impact your family. We also encourage you to contact Lakewood's superintendent and treasurer.
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Emailing one person at a time increases the changes that they will read and respond personally to your message.
Nora Katzenberger
Betsy Bergen Shaughnessy
Michael J. Callahan
Colleen Clark-Sutton
Lisa Dopman
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President
Vice-President
Vice-President
Board Member
Board Member
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nora.katzenberger@lakewoodcityschools.org
betsy.shaughnessy@lakewoodcityschools.org
michael.callahan@lakewoodcityschools.org
colleen.clark-sutton@lakewoodcityschools.org
lisa.dopman@lakewoodcityschools.org
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We also recommend reaching out the following people at Lakewood City Schools:
Maggie Niedzwiecki
Christine Palumbo
Kent Zeman
Superintendent
Assistant Superintendent
Treasurer
What is the School Board, and Who Serves On It?
Lakewood City Schools' Board of Education (School Board) consists of five members who are elected by Lakewood voters, and who are the ultimate authority over the school district. The superintendent is the CEO of the school district, and is hired by the school board. School board meetings are generally held on the first and third Monday of each month at 7pm. The meetings are open to the public, and are also available to watch on livestream.
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In addition to contacting Lakewood City Schools officials, please also join us at an upcoming school board meeting to share your opinion with the school board, or simply sit with our group in support.
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Thank You!
Sample Messages
Of course, your own thoughts and opinions are best to communicate.
If you're short on time, copy and paste the below email, make edits, make it your own!
Dear [Official's Name],
I am writing to express my concerns regarding the ongoing discussions about the potential closure or repurposing of Lakewood Elementary Schools. As a parent and member of the Lakewood community, I appreciate the district's efforts to address fiscal challenges, but I believe several important issues need further consideration and clarity before proceeding with any decisions.
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Timing and Data Accuracy
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Safety
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Impact on Social-Emotional Well-being
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Impact on walkability and overall Lakewood culture
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Capturing data on true need for centralized pre-k.
I respectfully urge the school board to take the time needed to thoroughly address these questions and ensure that all stakeholders—including parents, teachers, and the broader community—have a chance to authentically contribute to the decision-making process. Closing schools or redistricting has far-reaching implications, and it is vital that we move forward with clear, accurate data and a comprehensive understanding of the impacts on both students and the community.
Please halt this process and first collect the proper data with transparent community engagement. Thank you for your time and attention to these important concerns.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Child’s Name] (if applicable)
[Your Address]