A small school in Northern California, with only nine students, has an annual operating cost of about $118,000 per child. Locals believe keeping it open is crucial for the community.
The historic Orrick School in Humboldt County features five classrooms, a gym, a vegetable garden, and a spacious playground.
As urban schools across California are facing drops in enrollment and rising costs, rural institutions like Orrick are encountering even bigger hurdles. The closure of such schools could threaten the survival of entire communities.
“Should we close schools? That’s always a topic of conversation,” said Justin Wallace, the district superintendent. “But I think it’s a question of equity. Many families don’t have the luxury of options, and this school offers a stable environment for children. They feel safe, are well-nourished, and get to learn.”
Once, Orrick had around 3,000 residents and about 300 students, along with amenities like seven sawmills, shops, and even a movie theater.
Today, the population has dwindled to roughly 300, with a median income just under $39,000, significantly less than the state average.
Residents face serious challenges, including high poverty rates, unemployment, food insecurity, and issues like domestic violence and substance abuse. Limited resources amplify these challenges.
The school serves a vital role beyond education— it operates a food pantry, provides clothing, hosts support meetings, and even has washers and dryers for community use.
Kimberly Frick, a fifth-generation student at Orrick and current school board president, emphasizes that the school’s viability is crucial for the town. “I’m truly concerned about the prospect of closures. I don’t want that to happen on my watch,” she remarked, adding that the facility is clean, safe, and offers personalized education tailored to each student.
Last year, the school received $774,000 in funding from state and federal sources. Each of the nine students is from a low-income background, with more than half utilizing special education services, and some students have experienced homelessness or foster care situations.
The school employs four full-time staff members, including two teachers and administrative personnel; Wallace takes on multiple roles, including principal and director of special education, along with several part-time staff.
Heating expenses can reach $1,100 monthly, and families must drive 30 miles for swimming lessons.
A potential merger with the nearby Big Lagoon Union Elementary School District, located 25 miles away, might save less than $200,000 annually. However, the new district would face increased transportation costs for students.
Wallace pointed out that a merger could disenfranchise one of the two communities, both of which value their independence and governance.
Local opinions highlight the unique offerings of Orrick School compared to larger institutions. Older children already endure a 40-minute bus ride to McKinleyville High School, and Wallace and Frick argue it’s impractical to subject younger children to long bus rides during the dark, wet winters of Humboldt County, when roads can be obstructed by fallen trees or mudslides.
The school also emphasizes outdoor education, allowing students to raise trout, test water quality, study local ecology, and engage with Native American traditions.
About half of the students identify as Native American, benefiting from Yurok volunteers who teach Native culture through hands-on experiences. “How many other schools offer such an enriching environment?” Frick mused, stating, “Orrick is truly a fantastic place to learn.”
