JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — On Thursday evening, Duval County Public Schools revealed the superintendent’s proposal to integrate Anchor Academy into Mayport Elementary. This recommendation now awaits the school board’s decision, which is expected next month. The outcome could significantly affect the close-knit military community in the area.

The announcement stirred strong emotions at the meeting, as families from both schools voiced their concerns and the potential impact of the consolidation.

Emily Macias, whose two children attend Anchor Academy, shared her daughter’s reaction: “This is her first time hearing about it, so she was like, ‘I don’t want our school to close.’”

“This is her first time hearing about it, so she was like ‘I don’t want our school to close,” said Emily Macias, a mom of two Anchor Academy students. 

“My husband is currently stationed in Japan,” said Macias, “We decided to stay back just for Anchor Academy. Because we love the teachers and we know everyone, and the support overall is great.”

District staff explained that Anchor Academy has been under-enrolled for more than five years and has had a steady decline in enrollment for the last decade.

“I was crying sitting here. I said how am I going to speak, and I said I need to for my kids and our community,” Macias said.

“I hope this school doesn’t move. I love Anchor Academy, it’s the best school,” said Emily’s daughter. 

The Macias weren’t the only ones speaking out against the possible move.

“This merger has destroyed some friendships and families in a military community that’s already torn in half,” said one Mayport Elementary mom.

“This rips my heart out,” an Anchor Academy teacher said. 

“Because it shouldn’t be one school against another, one family against another,” said another parent.

District 2 school member April Carney informed everyone about another potential option that she’s been exploring.

Carney said after months of discussions with military and elected officials, including Congressman Rutherford, she discovered the Department of Defense’s ‘Defense Community Infrastructure Program — a one-time grant that could help build a new school for both military communities, which she is still exploring.

“I thought, wow, what a great way to be able to bring these two communities together by having something that’s never happened in Duval County, and that’s having a partnership with the Department of Defense in Duval County Public Schools to do something for our military families,” said Carney. 

While no final decisions have been made, Carney recognized the tough road ahead.

“I understand that change is hard for everyone,” she said, “there’s nothing I want more than to make sure you’re happy with the decision.”

During a Nov. 18 board workshop, school board members will be able to ask questions and give feedback on this recommendation. 

Then on Dec. 1, at their regular board meeting,  they will make a decision.