Between October 28 and October 31, members of the Board of Education visited nine school communities under consideration for consolidation and closure. These visits offered valuable insights into each school's unique strengths, needs, and challenges. From the visit, four thematic categories can be identified based on observations, comments, and experiences.

North Linden Elementary School

1. Community and Neighborhood Engagement

• Themes: Neighborhood school identity, strong community partnerships, and soccer pride.

Explanation: North Linden Elementary is deeply embedded in its community, with 65% of students walking or being car riders. The school is a hub of neighborhood pride, supported by partnerships such as the Columbus Crew's future donation of a soccer mini-pitch and the North Linden Cup, which fosters school and community engagement. Families and staff are committed to preserving the school's role as a neighborhood institution, expressing concerns about the impact of a potential closure on the community.

2. Diverse and Inclusive Student Support

• Themes: ELL, special education, and SEL services.

Explanation: Serving a student body represented by 27 countries, North Linden provides robust support for English language learners, special education, and social-emotional learning. These programs reflect the school's commitment to addressing diverse student needs and creating an inclusive environment where all students succeed. The recent selection for a new PreK program further underscores the focus on expanding academic opportunities.

3. Building Conditions and Space Constraints

• Themes: Overcrowded classrooms, outdated facilities, and non-ADA compliance.

Explanation: Despite updates such as a new HVAC system and library furniture, the school faces significant challenges with its aging infrastructure. Overcrowded classrooms hinder the learning environment, and the building is not ADA compliant. Modular units outside are underutilized, and the playground needs significant upgrades. Leaks and general signs of deterioration further highlight the need for facility improvements.

4. Strong Leadership and School Culture

• Themes: Dedicated staff, engaged leadership, and a positive school climate.

Explanation: The school benefits from strong leadership and a dedicated staff who prioritize creating a thriving school environment. Collaborative relationships with neighboring schools, active engagement in the classroom, and pride in academic achievements (a 3-star rating on the Ohio State Report Card) reflect the school's positive culture. Staff and families share a deep commitment to enhancing the student experience and maintaining the school's identity.