MUSD Board Meeting, Nov. 19, 2025 (Photo – Screengrab, KGEM)
The Monrovia Unified School District (MUSD) is moving forward with a plan to consolidate its two middle schools, Clifton Middle School and Santa Fe Computer Science Magnet School, as part of a broader strategy to address its financial challenges.
By Rena Kurlander
Superintendent Dr. Paula Hart Rodas presented the district’s recommendation during the MUSD Board of Education meeting on Wednesday evening. She emphasized that the decision follows a thorough review of community feedback and the district’s ongoing efforts to stabilize its finances.
In the final presentation, an interesting set of facts was highlighted: Over the past 5 to 7 years, five large apartment complexes have been built near the Monrovia Metro Station, totaling 1,360 housing units. However, MUSD found that only 34 students from those new or fairly new apartments currently attend Monrovia public schools. This suggests that large, expensive apartment developments do not attract many families with school-age children, further contributing to the district’s enrollment and funding challenges.
The proposal has sparked mixed reactions from the community. Parents, students, staff, and alumni have expressed a range of emotions, from sadness to concern over the potential impact on educational quality. Some parents have voiced worries about the logistical challenges of transporting students from Santa Fe to Clifton, fearing the added strain on their budgets and schedules. Many are also concerned about the lack of a solution for free busing, as the school district has yet to volunteer any financial support for transportation, further complicating the issue for families already facing economic pressures. As part of its commitment to transparency, the district has gathered input through in-person and virtual meetings, a public survey, and direct communications from community members.
“We recognize that discussions about school consolidation can be emotional and difficult,” read a statement from the District. “We sincerely appreciate the thoughtful input and perspectives shared by our community.”
Superintendent Rodas added, “Thank you to the many parents and community members who engaged in our process as we worked carefully to determine the path forward toward fiscal stabilization. We appreciate your partnership and continued support.”
Consolidation Survey (Chart by MUSD)
Under the recommendation, Clifton Middle School would become the sole middle school campus for all 7th and 8th grade students starting in August 2026. This move is part of a comprehensive Fiscal Stabilization Plan designed to address the district’s ongoing budget deficits due to long term declining enrollment. The plan also includes measures to streamline operations and ensure the district’s long-term fiscal health.
MUSD faces mounting financial pressures, which have left some districts across California at risk of losing their ability to govern independently. While other districts are struggling to meet financial obligations, MUSD is taking proactive steps to manage its budget and avoid similar challenges, according to the district.
Despite the difficult nature of this decision, the district has vowed to prioritize the stability and well-being of students, families, and staff throughout the transition. “We are committed to supporting all students, families, and staff through this transition and ensuring a positive, stable learning environment,” Dr. Rodas said.
As part of the consolidation process, the district is also soliciting public comments on the potential repurposing of the campus that may be closed, with the goal of ensuring all options for the future of the facility are considered.
The MUSD Board of Education is expected to make a final decision on the consolidation at its meeting on December 17, 2025. In the meantime, the district will continue to gather community input and remains committed to keeping residents informed throughout the decision-making process.
> Watch the entire Monrovia Unified School Board meeting on Nov. 19, 2025 at this link.
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