Long Beach School Board approves elementary school reconfiguration

Special to Long Beach Breeze

The Long Beach School District (LBSD) School Board has officially approved a comprehensive reconfiguration of its elementary schools, which District leaders say is a strategic move designed to enhance instructional alignment, deepen teacher collaboration, and ensure consistent, developmentally appropriate learning experiences for all students. The decision also responds to population shifts that officials say have created imbalances across elementary campuses, prompting the district to pursue a more efficient and equitable structure.

Beginning in the upcoming school year, LBSD elementary campuses will be organized by developmental stages. Quarles Elementary will serve as the district’s pre‑kindergarten through first grade facility.  Harper‑McCaughan Elementary will house second through fourth grades, and Reeves Elementary will be the school for fifth and sixth graders.

District officials say the structure allows each school to focus intentionally on the academic, social and physical needs unique to the age groups they serve. By grouping students according to developmental stages, LBSD aims to create smoother transitions, strengthen continuity across campuses and foster a unified elementary experience for students and staff.

Superintendent Dr. Talia Lock emphasized the significance of this decision in advancing the district’s long‑term vision.

“This reconfiguration strengthens our ability to grow our system of excellence by ensuring every child receives instruction tailored to their developmental needs,” said Lock. “It strengthens collaboration among our educators, creates stronger instructional pathways aligning our practices across campuses, and supports a more cohesive journey for students as they progress through elementary school. This is another meaningful step in our commitment to #DefyingExpectations.”

The district plans to continue working closely with families, educators and community partners to support a smooth transition and ensure that students are well‑prepared for the upcoming changes. Ongoing updates will be provided as implementation moves forward.

Beginning with the 2026-27 school year, schools in the LBSD will be: