Kansas University Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little has sent a letter to Lawrence Superintendent Rick Doll voicing support for neighborhood schools in Lawrence.

Gray-Little said all public institutions are facing challenges during the state’s fiscal crisis. The Lawrence district is considering how to cut $4 million to $5 million. One option on the table is closing elementary schools.

In the letter dated Friday, Gray-Little said KU benefits from two English as a second language “cluster sites” at Hillcrest and Cordley schools. She also said the university has a strong interest in ensuring neighborhoods around campus remain attractive to families, which aids in recruitment.

Gray-Little also said student achievement is related to school size and that neighborhood schools help address challenges.

“As you deliberate, I ask that you take into account the value of neighborhood schools to the community, the university, and most importantly the students of Lawrence,” Gray-Little wrote.