Special needs school in Broward to close

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (WSVN) -- Broward County's Public school superintendent has announced that the district is closing the doors to Sunset Learning Center.

Superintendent Robert Runcie addressed parents and faculty at a meeting Thursday night stating that officials intend to shut down the school for special needs children, blaming the closure on low student enrollment and budget cuts.

Parents and school officials are not happy with decision some even walked out in his face. "We were never given any input. The decision was made, and we were only given a chance to give our opinion, but the decision was already made," said grandparent Joann Salcedo.

"Sunset is the right place to be, they have helped these kids. The parent can voice their opinion on that. Slap in the face," said school secretary Patricia Walker.

Students will be enrolled in new schools at the beginning of next semester, leaving many parents worried their special needs kids will not receive proper care.

But, Runcie said, the majority of students at Sunset are capable of graduating and will benefit from services other schools can offer. Most, simply do not see it that way. "I do not see how this is going to be better for our students to be shoved into smaller classrooms, possibly portables and to have fewer students, more students and less services. I don't see how that's going to work," said a parent.

Two other special needs schools in Broward County will enroll students currently attending Sunset School Center beginning in the fall.

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