Norfolk School Board Chair Sarah DiCalogero said the body plans to start the school closure process in the 2026-27 school year after a surprise City Council ultimatum issued this week.

In a shot across the bow aimed at spurring the Norfolk School Board into action, Norfolk City Council passed a resolution Tuesday asking the body to create a plan by Aug. 1 to close and consolidate at least 10 schools.

Amid continued declining enrollment of the city’s public schools, Norfolk City Council has called for the city School Board to develop a plan within the next five months for closing and consolidating 10 schools,