Panelists answered the following: Should the San Benito High School District plan to eventually build a second high school as opposed to expanding the current campus?
Marty Richman: “There are about 730 regular public High Schools in California with enrollments 1,000 or more students. San Benito High School is number 68, in the top 10 percent of that group. The group average enrollment is 2,042; SBHS has 2,915, according to state data, and it’s crammed into a limited area. We are right in between where economy of scale bumps into the advantages of smaller schools and more competition. The answer depends on long-term future enrollment predictions. If we will add 10 percent or less in 10 years, we should retain one school, if more we should build a second school.”
Mary Zanger: “Yes. A second high school would better serve the community. Many students function better on smaller campuses. Site selection needs careful thought to be central to most student populations. Bicycle paths need to be abundant and available. Best physical layout must provide best teaching layout and good teaching. Goal is to encourage students to yearn for more education and to acquire job skills and training. High importance is to avoid dropouts and a pipeline to prison.”
Ruth Erickson: “Rather than duplicating existing programs, facilities and staff at great expense, the present site could be expanded to accommodate and share an expanded campus.”
Richard Herrera: “No. I believe they should expand and improve their campus which is probably the more affordable option.”
