We want to share an important update regarding the future of Danforth Elementary School. On June 24, 2025, the Riverview Gardens School District’s Board of Education approved Superintendent Dr. Tanya Patton’s recommendation to close Danforth Elementary at the conclusion of the 2025–2026 school year.
This recommendation was made after hosting several community engagement activities to share information related to the results of the Demographic Study, which was conducted earlier this school year. These engagement activities included in-person and virtual/hybrid meetings, surveys, social media announcements, newsletters, advertisements, emails, text messages, physical signage, etc.
This decision was made after months of careful consideration, including a districtwide input from staff, families and community members. The recommendation was based on several key factors:
Danforth Elementary has significant structural and accessibility challenges, including five separate levels that are not ADA compliant.
The building lacks the instructional space and modern design found in other RGSD schools.
Major repairs—such as flooring, windows, exterior structure, and ADA compliance—would cost an estimated $3.5 million.
The results of the Demographic Study predict a decline in enrollment of 800–1,000 students over the next 10 years, leading to underused buildings across RGSD.
While this is a difficult change, it also presents an opportunity to better align resources, redraw District boundaries to balance enrollment and enhance educational environments for all scholars.
We are fully committed to involving you in the process. The District will implement a committee of parents, community members, students, Board members and employees to develop an effective plan to move forward. This committee will host planning forums to ensure that everyone has a voice in shaping how the closure and redistricting process unfolds.
Our top priority is to make this transition as smooth and supportive as possible. More information will be shared in the coming weeks, and we encourage you to participate and stay informed.
Thank you for your continued support of our students and schools.
Respectfully,
Dr. Tanya E. Patton
Superintendent of Schools