The Hidden Influence of Architects and Security Firms in School Closure Decisions
Understanding the Decision-Making Landscape Behind School Closures
In recent discussions about school closures, the role of architects often remains overlooked. Yet, their influence in shaping the future of our educational institutions is far more substantial than many realize. Typically, an architectural firm that establishes a strong partnership with a school district can become the primary driver of planning and decision-making processes.
The process begins with an assessment known as an “educational adequacy” review—an evaluation focused on how well a school’s physical environment supports learning. Following this, architects are frequently tasked with managing various community engagement efforts, such as parent advisory groups, often involving reports and recommendations that may not be made publicly available. They also collaborate with long-term planning committees, often producing comprehensive documents that include subcontracted services like demographic analysis.
Furthermore, these firms may be involved in financial planning related to bond proposals, which often include their consulting fees within the overall project costs. Once a bond effort is approved, architectural firms are typically contracted to oversee the design and implementation of new or renovated facilities, directing most of the project’s scope.
The Impact on Our Local Schools
For instance, our local primary school—built around the 1950s—received a notably low “educational adequacy” score, primarily based on a building-focused evaluation by architects. Ironically, the school’s academic and social-emotional metrics were among the highest in the state, and it was recognized as one of Oregon’s top ten primary schools. This discrepancy raises questions about the purpose of the adequacy scoring: primarily a measure of physical infrastructure rather than educational quality.
Because the school’s evaluation was tied to architectural assessments, it received minimal repair or maintenance—no new roof, limited upgrades—which aligns with the typical industry preference for designing new buildings rather than maintaining existing ones. This focus on new construction often results in community disruption, as schools are closed or demolished not due to a lack of funding for repairs, but because the planning process is skewed toward building anew—costly projects heavily influenced by architects’ interests.
Broader Consequences for Communities
This trend has profound implications. School closures can dismantle community hubs, affecting students, families, teachers, and neighborhood stability. The reliance on bond funds often prioritizes innovative, architect-designed structures over preserving and maintaining existing schools, leading to neglect driven by design interests rather than community needs.
The Emerging Role of Security Companies
Compounding this complexity are the