[b Secondary schools in Christchurch hope to learn within a month if they will be closed or merged in the Government's $1 billion renewal of the education system there.
The schools have about 2000 empty spaces and the Ministry of Education will advise the Government next month what should be done with the 14 state schools there.
Radio New Zealand's education correspondent says the biggest question marks concern Avonside Girls' High School, which needs rebuilding, and Shirley Boys' High School, which cannot remain on its site.
Mairehau High School may also be vulnerable because it has only 380 students and Government documents show officials last year discussed closing or moving it.
The Canterbury West Coast Secondary Principals Association says Christchurch schools have told the ministry what they would like to see.
It says one option is for the Government to cap the number of students it will fund at each school.
