BLAINE, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – The Blaine School District is considering plans to merge its primary and elementary schools as it faces more budget cuts.

Blaine School District Superintendent Dr. Christopher Granger says the potential move comes in response to declining enrollment and a shrinking budget.

He estimates the merger would save roughly $600,000 while also allowing the district to retain staff in key areas such as health, behavioral support and its library.

Under the district’s proposal, first and second grade classrooms from Blaine’s Primary School would move into Blaine Elementary School in the fall. Classes for pre-school and kindergarten students would continue to take place in the primary school building.

The merger is one of several proposals by the district to address what it expects to be a significant budget deficit.

The Blaine School Board will likely continue discussions about the proposed merger at its next meeting on March 24.