A dynamic optimization model for school network planning

Abstract

This paper describes a dynamic (multi-period) optimization model that has recently been used in Portugal to formulate planning proposals for the evolution of several school networks. This effort follows the extension of elementary education from 6 to 9 years as decided by the Government in 1986, and gradually implemented since then. The model allows for facility closure or size reduction, as well as facility opening and size expansion, with sizes limited to a set of pre-defined standards. It assumes facility costs are divided into a fixed component and two variable components, dependent, respectively, on capacity and attendance.