Bill S.52, introduced by Senator Watson, aims to enhance the process of school district mergers and closures by requiring the Agency of Education to develop a comprehensive framework for districts to consider during these transitions. The framework will include various considerations such as cultural differences between merging districts, community impacts of school closures, and strategies for supporting students during transitions. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of planning for the repurposing of closed school buildings, including maintenance costs and transportation logistics.

Furthermore, the bill proposes the establishment of funding sources to assist with the repurposing of closed school buildings, facilitate discussions around cultural differences, and support municipalities or districts with operational costs for closed buildings until they can be sold or repurposed. This initiative aims to ensure that school closures and mergers are handled thoughtfully, with attention to the needs of students and communities involved.