The Norfolk (Virginia) School Board has voted to close three schools at the end of the academic year as part of a consolidation plan.
WAVY-TV reports that Norview Elementary, Oceanair Elementary, and Willoughby Early Childhood Care will close later this year. Oceanair will then be repurposed into an early childhood center for pre-K only.
“This was not an easy decision, but we are committed to a supporting and nurturing students and families through this transition,” said Acting Superintendent Jeff Rose.
Enrollment in Norfolk Public Schools has dropped by about 28% over the past 15 years, and several school buildings now are underused. Enrollment for the 2025-26 school year is 26,328. The student numbers have been declining each year by an average of 471 students, officials say.
The changes mean Oceanair students will be moved to either Bayview, Mary Calcott, or Ocean View elementary schools. Oceanair has 406 students. After closing, Oceanair will replace Willoughby as an Early Childhood Center.
Norview Elementary students will be reassigned to Sherwood Forest and Tanners Creek Elementary schools.
