In the quiet Millcreek foothills of Utah, a growing community of parents is fighting to save Eastwood Elementary School from closure. What began as a district review has turned into a passionate grassroots movement involving petitions, public protests, and even an independent “community study.”
For families like the Ballantynes and Croppers, Eastwood isn’t just a school — it’s where friendships and community bonds were formed. Eight-year-olds Ellie and Scarlett have been inseparable since kindergarten, walking to school together and sharing countless memories. Their parents, along with dozens of others, are determined to keep that sense of community alive.
The Granite School District has listed Eastwood as one of two elementary schools under review for closure, citing declining enrollment and low building utilization. According to district officials, Eastwood operates at just 54% capacity, with about 270 students in a building designed for 500. Superintendent Ben Horsley explained that shrinking family sizes and the rising cost of local housing have reduced the number of school-aged children in the area.
However, Eastwood parents aren’t convinced that numbers tell the full story. They’ve questioned the data and transparency behind the district’s population study and released their own community-backed report that challenges the conclusions. Their campaign, “SOS Eastwood,” has gathered more than 1,600 signatures through petitions and an organized social media effort.
Parents argue that Eastwood plays a unique educational role in the area. It’s a Gold STEM-certified school — one of only a few in Utah — recognized for its science and technology programs. They believe the district’s decision to shutter the school overlooks its academic strengths and long-term potential.
Some residents are also questioning possible conflicts of interest within the Granite School Board. Concerns have been raised regarding board member Julie Jackson’s family-owned property management firm, Beckstrand & Associates, and whether Eastwood’s prime location could influence district decisions. Parents requested that Jackson recuse herself from any votes regarding the school’s fate. District officials, however, stated that legal counsel found no evidence of wrongdoing or personal gain, asserting that there are no plans to sell district property if Eastwood closes.
The district’s official population study—conducted by the Population Analysis Committee and consulting firm MGT—projected a 13.7% enrollment decline across the district’s K–5 schools within five years, and a 24.1% drop specifically at Eastwood. But parents counter that these figures don’t reflect current demographic shifts or new housing developments. Their proposal suggests merging nearby schools, expanding Eastwood’s STEM program, or delaying any closure vote until more accurate data is available.
Adding to the frustration, Eastwood was included in a 2017 district bond initiative promising future rebuilding projects. Parents now feel betrayed, believing they voted for the bond under the impression that Eastwood would soon be renovated, not closed. The district maintains that the rebuild remains on the long-term plan unless a future board revises it.
For families like the Tomchaks, the school’s closure would have lasting consequences. Some parents have already begun exploring options outside of the Granite School District — a move that could permanently shift enrollment patterns. “If Eastwood shuts down, they’ll lose us forever,” said Jenifer Tomchak, whose daughter attends the school.
As the December vote approaches, emotions remain high. Parents continue to hold meetings, organize community walks, and push for transparency. For them, it’s not just about saving a building — it’s about preserving a neighborhood’s heart, its friendships, and the trust between parents and their schools.
Whether the board chooses to close Eastwood or give it another chance, one thing is clear: this small community’s voice has made a powerful statement about the importance of local education and public accountability.
