Grand Junction, CO — Over the past couple of years, District 51 has faced the difficult task of making decisions to address declining enrollment and ensure the long-term sustainability of our schools. In November, the Board of Education voted to close Clifton, Nisley, and Scenic Elementary Schools, and on December 12 voted to approve the new boundary changes for students affected by these closures. 

To facilitate a smooth and effective transition, the District is committed to supporting students, families, and staff as they join their new school communities. We will continue to provide regular updates and guidance throughout this process.

The Board of Education voted on December 12 to approve the following boundary changes for the 2025-26 school year:

• Next year, students residing in the current Clifton Elementary area will attend Chatfield Elementary, Rocky Mountain Elementary, or Taylor Elementary.
• Next year, students residing in the current Nisley Elementary area will attend Fruitvale Elementary or Orchard Avenue Elementary.
• Next year, students residing in the current Scenic Elementary area will attend Broadway Elementary or Wingate Elementary.

These adjustments will be updated by Mesa County and available in approximately a week.

Like many districts across the nation, District 51 is experiencing significant declines in enrollment, with hundreds fewer kindergartners entering the system each year. These closures are a necessary step to address underutilized facilities and ensure resources are used effectively to benefit all students.

“We understand how difficult these changes are for our families and staff,” said Superintendent Dr. Hill. “Our focus remains on providing the highest quality education and supporting a seamless transition for everyone involved.”

District 51 continues to value giving families the option to choose where and how their child is educated. As always, School of Choice will remain an option for all District 51 families. The School of Choice application period is set to open on January 10, 2025.

For questions about school closures, boundary changes, or transitions, please contact the district’s Creating a Sustainable D51 line at 970-254-5872 or d51sustain@d51schools.org.

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For questions or media inquiries, please contact D51 PIO Callie Berkson at 505.217.6435 or callie.berkson@d51schools.org.