Austin, October 8, 2025
News Summary
The Austin Independent School District (AISD) has announced a proposal to close 13 schools and redraw attendance boundaries to tackle a $19.7 million budget deficit. With a significant decline in student enrollment, approximately 25% of the district’s students could be affected by the closures, which include several elementary and middle schools. Community engagement meetings are scheduled, with a district vote on the matter set for November 2025.
Austin – The Austin Independent School District (AISD) has put forth a challenging proposal to close 13 schools and revamp academic programs for the upcoming 2026-27 school year. This drastic measure is primarily driven by a projected budget deficit amounting to $19.7 million coupled with declining student enrollment. As part of the proposal, AISD aims to redraw 98% of existing school attendance boundaries, which will significantly impact the district’s educational landscape.
The targeted school closures include notable institutions such as Becker Elementary, Bryker Woods Elementary, and Martin Middle School, among others. Almost 25% of the district’s 70,000 students would be directly affected by these boundary changes. The consolidation plan is expected to result in an estimated savings of approximately $25 million in operational costs, though it also entails the elimination of nearly 7,000 seats from the district’s current school capacity.
Enrollment statistics reveal a troubling trend for the district, which has experienced a 17% decrease since 2015 when student numbers peaked at 84,000. The proposed closures predominantly affect schools serving low-income families, with six of the ten elementary schools on the closure list falling into this category.
To mitigate the impact of closures, the district is aiming to relocate crucial programs, such as Spanish dual-language education, to non-zoned schools which would allow for greater flexibility in student placements. As a part of this initiative, four new non-zoned Spanish dual-language programs will launch at selected campuses.
Community Engagement and Future Decision-Making
AISD recognizes the importance of community feedback during this transition. Virtual open house meetings are scheduled for October 14, October 16, and October 27, providing platforms for parents and residents to voice their opinions and concerns regarding the proposed changes. Ultimately, AISD is set to vote on the proposal on November 20, 2025.
Challenges and Context
AISD has acknowledged the severe risks posed by continued ineffective resource allocation, with Superintendent Matias Segura emphasizing the urgency of their plan. In light of previous attempts to close schools, the last of which occurred in 2020, the potential for unrest within the community has been a notable concern following past closures of four elementary campuses.
Students impacted by boundary adjustments will have policies in place allowing them to remain in their current schools if they are not closing. However, it is important to note that transportation will not be provided for these students.
Key School Closures
The complete list of proposed school closures includes:
- Becker Elementary
- Bryker Woods Elementary
- Dawson Elementary
- Maplewood Elementary
- Oak Springs Elementary
- Palm Elementary
- Ridgetop Elementary
- Sunset Valley Elementary
- Widén Elementary
- Martin Middle School
- Bedichek Middle School
- Winn Montessori School
- International High School (transitioning to a program at Navarro ECHS)
FAQs
What is the reason for the proposed school closures in AISD?
The Austin Independent School District (AISD) has proposed a plan to close 13 schools and adjust academic programs due to budget issues, including a $19.7 million budget deficit and declining enrollment.
How many students will be affected by the boundary changes?
Almost 25% of the district’s 70,000 students would be affected by the boundary changes.
When will the AISD vote on the proposed closures?
AISD will vote on the proposal on November 20, 2025.
What are the scheduled meetings for community feedback?
Virtual open house meetings are scheduled for October 14, October 16, and October 27 for community feedback.
What happens to students whose schools are closing?
Grandfathering policies will allow students whose schools are not closing to remain if boundaries change, but transportation won’t be provided.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Budget Deficit | $19.7 million |
| Schools Proposed for Closure | 13 |
| Students Affected | Almost 25% of 70,000 students |
| Expected Savings | $25 million in operational costs |
| Enrollment Decrease | 17% since 2015 |
| New Programs | Four new non-zoned Spanish dual-language programs |
| Community Meeting Dates | October 14, October 16, October 27 |
| Vote Scheduled | November 20, 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Austin Proposes Closure of 13 Schools Amid Declining Enrollment
Austin Schools Propose Closure of 13 Campuses Amid Budget Cuts
Austin School District Proposes Closure of 13 Schools
Austin ISD Proposes Closure of 13 Schools Amid Budget Concerns
AISD Proposes Closure of 13 Schools Amid Budget Deficit
Austin School District Proposes Closure of 13 Campuses
Austin School District Proposes Closure of 13 Schools
Austin ISD Announces School Consolidation Plan
Austin ISD Proposes Closure of 13 Schools Amid Budget Crisis
Austin Parents Call for Pause on Proposed School Consolidations
Additional Resources
- Austin American-Statesman
- Wikipedia: Austin Independent School District
- CBS Austin
- Google Search: Austin ISD school closures
- KVUE News
- Google Scholar: Austin ISD school closures
- Community Impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Austin Independent School District
- KXAN News
- Google News: Austin ISD school closures
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