Austin, Texas, October 16, 2025
News Summary
In South Austin, parents are voicing their fears regarding the Austin ISD’s plan to close and consolidate over a dozen schools in their neighborhoods. With a Board of Trustees vote approaching, community members are rallying against the proposal which could affect over 16,000 students and save the district $25.6 million amid a significant budget deficit. Parents of Widen Elementary, among others, express worries about safety, increased distance to new schools, and the impact on their children’s education. A virtual Q&A session highlighted these concerns as families look for ways to oppose the changes.
Austin, Texas – Parents in South Austin are expressing concern over Austin ISD’s proposal to close and consolidate more than a dozen schools, including six in their neighborhoods. The proposal is set for a Board of Trustees vote on November 20, with potential closures effective for the 2026-27 school year. District officials stated that they are considering community feedback to guide the process.
The AISD plans could save $25.6 million as the district confronts a $19.7 million budget deficit. The proposal includes closing 10 elementary schools, two middle schools, and the district’s Montessori campus, affecting over 16,000 students’ attendance boundaries. Parents and community members have formed a petition website, LetsGetItRightAISD.com, advocating against the consolidation plan.
A virtual Q&A session was held Tuesday night to discuss the proposed consolidation plan. Families from Widen Elementary, one of the schools facing closure, shared their shock and worries about the potential impact on their community. Concerns include increased distance to new schools, with some families having to walk over a mile, which poses challenges for those without reliable transportation. Parents described potential safety risks for their children, including having to cross train tracks to get to new schools.
The list of schools for closure includes Barrington, Becker, Bryker Woods, Dawson, Maplewood, Oak Springs, Palm, Ridgetop, Sunset Valley, Widen Elementary, Bedichek and Martin Middle Schools, and Winn Montessori School, as well as International High School. Many potential closures involve schools that serve a majority of low-income students and those designated as academically unacceptable by the state.
Trustee Kathryn Whitley Chu has expressed intentions to vote against the current proposal due to its potential harm to community schools with strong academic records. Families are concerned that if schools close, it may negatively impact their children’s academic performance, as evidenced by previous school closures. The recommendations aim to address declining enrollment, which dropped from 84,000 students in 2015 to 70,000 in 2023, a 17% decline.
The district’s next virtual meeting is planned for Thursday, focusing on potential closures in North Austin. As community members rally against the proposals, the impact of such closures looms large over families and the educational landscape in South Austin.
FAQ
What is the main concern regarding the AISD’s proposal?
Parents in South Austin are expressing concern over Austin ISD’s proposal to close and consolidate more than a dozen schools, including six in their neighborhoods.
When is the vote on the proposed school closures?
The proposal is set for a Board of Trustees vote on November 20, with potential closures effective for the 2026-27 school year.
What is the expected financial impact of the proposed closures?
The AISD plans could save $25.6 million as the district confronts a $19.7 million budget deficit.
How many schools are included in the closures?
The proposal includes closing 10 elementary schools, two middle schools, and the district’s Montessori campus, affecting over 16,000 students’ attendance boundaries.
Are there any safety concerns for students if the schools close?
Parents described potential safety risks for their children, including having to cross train tracks to get to new schools.
Key Features of the Proposed School Closures
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Schools Proposed for Closure | 12 Schools (10 Elementary, 2 Middle, 1 Montessori) |
| Estimated Savings | $25.6 million |
| Budget Deficit | $19.7 million |
| Projected Effective Year of Closures | 2026-27 School Year |
| Impact on Students | Affecting over 16,000 students’ attendance boundaries |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- KVUE: Austin ISD School Closure Proposal
- Statesman: AISD School Closure List
- Fox 7 Austin: AISD School Closures Consideration
- Austin Chronicle: AISD Board Deliberations
- KXAN: Questions about AISD School Closures
- Wikipedia: Austin Independent School District
- Google Search: Austin ISD School Closures
- Google Scholar: Austin ISD
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Austin Independent School District
- Google News: Austin ISD School Closures
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
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