Lexington schools are navigating a challenging landscape where demographic shifts and economic pressures intertwine. According to the latest demographic data from the 2024-2025 school year, approximately 77% of the student body is Hispanic, and 42% are learning English as a second language. The economic challenges are further highlighted by the fact that nearly 75% of students are eligible for free or reduced lunch.
District administrators, including Whetzal, have been focused on preventing layoffs despite fears of a reduced student population leading to a surplus of staff. By absorbing roles left vacant through staff turnover and retirements, the district managed to avoid cutting jobs. This strategy resulted in some classes becoming larger, but Whetzal noted that the staff is managing these changes “really well.”
The students themselves face emotional hurdles, particularly with the loss of friends whose families have relocated for employment. This is especially tough for younger students, who miss familiar peers in their daily school life. Mirsa Sierra, who directs the nonprofit Keep Lexington Beautiful, often hears about these challenges both from outreach events in schools and her own son. The topic of friends leaving is common among students.
“When they’re talking amongst themselves, I do hear some kids say, ‘So and so moved, and this is why,’ or ‘So and so is staying here for right now, but they’re probably gonna leave,’” Sierra shared.
Casanova shared a personal experience where her son, just starting middle school, found it hard to cope with the departure of a close friend to Minnesota. Despite the distance, they maintain their friendship through texting and social media, which Casanova sees as a valuable tool for staying connected across distances.
“Having to say goodbye to friends is not easy,” Casanova said. “But I feel kids are more resilient than we are, so they can adapt.”
Older students are not only dealing with social changes but also feel the economic strains their families face. Lemus noted that while parents try to shield their children from financial stress, it inevitably affects students, especially those nearing graduation. They are reconsidering their future plans, often feeling the need to contribute financially to their households.
“I’ve noticed it in our conversations with some seniors as far as talking about their post-high school plans,” Lemus explained. “Maybe my parent has found a job, but they’re commuting. Maybe they’re not making as much, or there’s more expenses. That maybe shifts my thinking. Maybe I need to immediately contribute to the household, and I need to put off my college plans or shift what I’m doing.”
A ‘resilient’ community
The announcement of the Tyson plant closure, coming just before Thanksgiving, initially left the community in shock. Lemus described a palpable sense of disbelief that permeated the school environment in the days following the news.
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