New push to find buyers for empty KCPS schools

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Neighborhoods do not want to see dozens of Kansas City public schools to sit empty for very long.

It is the reason why there is a new effort to fill some of the 30 closed buildings across the city.

Jerry McElroy likens an empty school building to a student who keeps the mind empty.

McElroy said, "They sit there and they deteriorate."

That has been McElroy's mantra for 13 years in Kansas City's inner city.
        
He has been teaching struggling Kansas City public school students how to read - with success.

McElroy's The Upper Room, located at 59 Street and Swope Parkway, served 2,500 students last year.
Many of those students came in reading two years below their grade level.
         
His after-school program has grown so much, he needs another building.

McElroy said, "We look at these buildings and think they cannot be an eyesore."

It is one of the reasons why charitable groups are now trying to help non profit organizations like McElroy's fill the empty neighborhood schools.

Shannon Jaxx, who is in charge of KCPS's repurposing project, was honest.

"Real estate projects, none are moving too quickly. It's a challenge," said Jaxx.

Jaxx has been looking for buyers for a year. So far, only one building is close to selling. However, the district said eight more may soon have prospects.         
        
Ultimately, it will be up to community members who live near the schools to decide if someone like McElroy would be a good neighbor.

His reading program is now spread across 22 area churches.

McElroy said, "We would feel comfortable in any neighborhood."

McElroy said the way he reads it, he believes he is changing lives for the better.

He hopes that will garner enough support to fill a new location.

In March, Kansas City Public Schools will hold seven to eight public meetings for residents who want to hear from interested buyers like McElroy before the district finalizes any real estate deals.