Commission Urged Evanston Schools to Prioritize Accessibility

The Commission on Aging and Disabilities wants accessibility costs included in future District 65 school closure plans.

Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Special Education

Gouache-painted illustration of a modern school entrance with an accessibility ramp, representing efforts to prioritize educational inclusivity. — The Commission on Aging and Disabilities is urging Evanston's District 65 to account for accessibility costs as it moves toward final school closure decisions. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should your local school district prioritize accessibility costs when making decisions about school closures?

The Commission on Aging and Disabilities has moved to advocate for better accessibility considerations as District 65 prepares to close two additional schools. This push comes as the school board moves toward a final vote on closures scheduled for November 2026.

Why it matters

Ensuring accessibility remains a central factor in school planning is critical to the educational experience of students with disabilities. The commission aims to guarantee that these specific costs are fully accounted for in upcoming district budget calculations.

District 65 has identified that at least two more school buildings must be closed following the closure of Kingsley Elementary and Dr. Bessie Rhodes School at the end of the 2025-26 year. Officials will present a full closure plan to the board on October 13, 2026.

The players

District 65

The local public school district currently managing facility consolidation and planning for future school closures.

Commission on Aging and Disabilities

A municipal advisory body focused on ensuring equitable access and support services for all local residents.

The details

The Commission on Aging and Disabilities met at Morton City Hall to draft a letter urging the district to prioritize accessibility in its decision-making process. Commissioners are currently refining the document to emphasize how physical school environments directly impact the student education experience. The final version of this formal request is expected to be approved by the commission during a special session at the end of the month.

End of 2025-26 school year: District 65 closed two elementary schools.
September 2026: Administrators informed the school board that more closings were necessary.
October 8, 2026: The commission met to discuss the draft letter.
October 13, 2026: District officials will present a full school closure plan.
October 29, 2026: The commission will hold a special meeting to finalize its letter.

The Home Front

This advocacy push follows the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act as local districts manage shrinking footprints. The commission's efforts serve to ensure that school consolidation decisions remain in alignment with these federal accessibility standards.

Families should monitor the district website for the full school closure plan due to be presented on October 13, 2026. Reviewing this document is essential for understanding how future reassignments may affect your child's commute or access to specific school support services.

The takeaway

Advocacy for inclusive infrastructure is a proactive way to ensure school board decisions reflect the needs of all students. Plan to attend or watch the school board vote in November 2026 to stay informed about how district consolidation will impact your neighborhood school facilities.