Pinellas plans to merge two elementary schools into a K-8 campus

Pinellas County is set to merge Walsingham and Southern Oak elementary schools into a K-8 campus, starting in the 2025-26 academic year, to address a pressing demand for more K-8 options in the region. With over 2,200 students on the waitlist for such schools, this significant change is expected to benefit local families seeking a stable educational environment for their children from kindergarten through eighth grade. Deputy Superintendent Stephanie Woodford emphasized the popularity of the K-8 model, which helps foster stronger connections among students and reduces the challenges often associated with transitioning to middle school. The new campus will be the third K-8 school in Pinellas, joining James B. Sanderlin K-8 and Madeira Beach Fundamental K-8.

The district plans to preserve the existing attendance zones for grades K-5, while allowing families to choose between remaining at the K-8 campus or transferring to local middle schools for grades six through eight. However, the new school does not yet have a name, and it may not fully meet the current demand due to limited seating availability. The district anticipates having two classrooms of open seats once the merger is complete, providing some flexibility for families looking for educational opportunities. This strategic initiative aims to create a robust educational pathway that supports student development over a longer period.