San Jose, California – Dozens of people marched San José this afternoon to protest upcoming school closures. Berryessa Union School District.

Parents and students stood with banners in Berryessa on Thursday, chanting slogans and trying to get their message across. They say they don’t want high-performing schools to close because of budget cuts.

“It really broke my heart when my oldest daughter, Mattie, told me she wanted Ruskin to stay open for her sister, Mable,” said parent Kim Ngo.

Parents, students and their supporters say two to three schools in the Berryessa Union School District may close soon. There are 13 schools in the district and it is currently being proposed to consolidate or close the schools due to a $6 million budget deficit. Budget Stability Committee.

“When you see successful schools that are doing so well in terms of scoring, when you see them being listed for closure, you really wonder how effective and successful this committee is?” said Karen Khasymska, a parent from Cherrywood Elementary School.

Berryessa Union School District responded to the group, releasing the following statement:

“Unfortunately, like countless public school districts in the Bay Area, Berryessa Union School District (BUSD) has experienced a significant decline in enrollment over the past decade. In response, BUSD has spent the past two years working thoughtfully, inclusively, and addressing the financial impact of reduced funding.” collaboration process.

Our School Consolidation Advisory Committee, comprised of representatives from all of our schools, recently completed recommendations for the BUSD Board of Trustees regarding school closures, and the Board will meet to determine next steps. We understand how difficult and challenging this process is for our entire community. Closing schools is an action that we take extremely seriously and should be used as a last resort. The District remains committed to supporting our Berryessa community through this transition.” – Perla Rodriguez, BUSD Spokesperson

Still, protesters believe the district is not doing enough to keep all schools open.

“We hold the school district accountable for the decisions they make. They have no management, they have no oversight, they don’t talk to us. We have to trust them. How can we trust them? Educators, is the best option they can offer us to close schools?” said Laneview Elementary School parent Amit Sewak.

The district says the stabilization committee was formed last year and consists of representatives from each school. The committee will present its findings to the district board of trustees.

“We just want to say to the board and the district, make no mistake. We will hold you accountable for what you did to our children and our schools. Berryessa, save our schools!” said parent Gayathri Padnyaram.

Berryessa said no final decision has been made on which schools will close and trustees will begin reviewing the committee’s findings on Dec. 18.