Carpinteria Family School to Permanently Close in June

The school board votes to shutter the elementary school, citing declining enrollment and budget challenges.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Carpinteria Unified School Board has voted to permanently close Carpinteria Family School, an elementary school that has been a part of the community since 2002. The school, which currently has 20 students and one remaining teacher, Lorilee Collins, will officially close on June 30. The board cited mounting pressures of declining enrollment district-wide and increasing budget challenges as the reasons for the closure.

Why it matters

The closure of Carpinteria Family School, known for its close-knit community, family-focused approach, and alternative educational model, is a significant loss for many local families who have cherished the school over the years. The decision highlights the financial pressures facing the district, including legal battles and settlements that have drained resources.

The details

The school board voted to prune classes and staff at Carpinteria Family School in June 2025 in preparation for the permanent closure. Collins, the school's only remaining teacher, will be moved to Canalino Elementary School for the next school year to continue teaching her 4th-grade students. The closure will save the district $120,000 in the 2026-27 school year. Once upon a time, the school had a budget of $540,000, with three teachers and three instructional assistants.

  • The school board voted to prune classes and staff at Carpinteria Family School in June 2025.
  • Carpinteria Family School will officially close on June 30, 2026.

The players

Jack Mohr

A parent of a Carpinteria Family School student.

Lorilee Collins

The school's only remaining teacher, who has been with the school since it began.

Jaime Diamond

A member of the Carpinteria Unified School Board.

Genette Alcaraz

A new member of the Carpinteria Unified School Board, who was sworn in in October.

Diana Rigby

The Superintendent of the Carpinteria Unified School District.

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What they’re saying

“Overall, I think parents are disappointed but were resigned to this outcome after the vote last June.”

— Jack Mohr, Parent (independent.com)

“This has been a long road — painful and drawn out.”

— Jaime Diamond, School Board Member (independent.com)

“Family School is a really special place, and I'm deeply grateful one of my kids was able to be a part of it.”

— Jessica Petrillo, Parent (independent.com)

“I hope that the families and students of Family School find their sense of community and safety and love and support at one of our other schools, and I believe that is possible.”

— Genette Alcaraz, School Board Member (independent.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.