Broward County is exploring plans to repurpose six schools slated for closure into sites for affordable housing, workforce education, and school district office space. The initiative is part of the district’s broader “Redefining Broward County Public Schools” plan to make better use of underutilized properties.
According to a Sun Sentinel report, the schools scheduled for closure include North Fork Elementary, Sunshine Elementary in Miramar, Panther Run Elementary, Palm Cove Elementary in Pembroke Pines, Plantation Middle, and Seagull Alternative High in Fort Lauderdale. The closures were approved by the School Board in January due to low enrollment.
Three of the schools—Panther Run Elementary, Plantation Middle, and Sunshine Elementary—are expected to be converted into office space as the district consolidates and vacates some of its current office leases. Palm Cove Elementary may become a branch campus of Sheridan Technical Center, expanding the district’s vocational education offerings. The former Arthur Ashe Middle School, which closed in 2013, has already served as both office space and a satellite location for Atlantic Technical College, with plans to relocate staff and further expand technical programs.
A redevelopment plan for North Fork Elementary faces potential challenges. The site is near archaeologically significant Native American land, including burial grounds, according to a letter from the City of Fort Lauderdale. The district is planning an archaeological survey before moving forward.
School officials have already finalized plans for several of the closed schools but remain in discussions regarding North Fork and Seagull Alternative High. A preliminary workshop was held on March 24, with another workshop scheduled for May to continue planning and community engagement.
