Seattle Public Schools cancels upcoming community meetings amid closure uproar [Video]

SEATTLE – Seattle Public Schools (SPS) is canceling all upcoming community meetings in the midst of a public uproar, following the district’s decision to close 21 schools to address a looming budget crisis.

SPS Superintendent Dr. Brent Jones announced Monday evening that upcoming community meetings surrounding the imminent closure of 21 schools would be canceled. The district says they will release a new schedule of “engagement sessions” soon.

“I understand the closure of schools is a very serious topic. After receiving thoughtful feedback from many of you, it is clear we need more time to carefully consider our next steps,” reads part of a statement from Dr. Jones, obtained by FOX 13 Seattle.

The announcement comes as parents and families pack the school district’s community hearings.

Seattle Public Schools, facing a $104 million budget shortfall, plans to close nearly two-dozen schools to ease their budgetary woes by October. According to Jones in his most recent letter, that proposal …