Two Long Beach Schools Face Closure Amidst Declining Enrollment
Edison and Gompers Elementary Schools are recommended for closure by the end of the 2026-2027 school year due to low enrollment and underutilization.
The Long Beach Unified School District has recommended the closure of two elementary schools, Edison and Gompers, citing declining enrollment and underutilization of facilities. The district proposed that both schools cease operations at the end of the 2026–2027 academic year.
Edison Elementary School currently serves 415 students, with nearly 40% attending through the School of Choice program. The school is operating at approximately 44% of its program capacity. Gompers Elementary School has an enrollment of 370 students and is operating at about 38% of its program capacity.
The matter is scheduled for discussion at an upcoming Board of Education meeting on October 7. If approved, the closures would take effect for the 2027–2028 school year. Students from Edison would be reassigned to Chavez or Oropeza elementary schools, both located within a mile. Gompers students would attend Cleveland, Holmes, or MacArthur elementary schools, all within a two-mile radius.
Parents and community members have voiced opposition to the proposed closures. An online petition to keep Gompers Elementary School open has garnered nearly 1,500 signatures. Supporters of Gompers emphasize its community feel and historical significance in the Lakewood area, questioning the decision given recent investments in school repairs.