Austin, October 4, 2025
News Summary
The Austin Independent School District has proposed closing 13 schools due to declining enrollment and a $19.7 million budget deficit. The closures, affecting 11 elementary and 2 middle schools, could save the district $25 million and impact nearly 25% of its 70,000 students. A vote by the AISD Board of Trustees is scheduled for November 20, with the intention to implement changes in the 2026-27 school year. Community feedback opportunities will be provided through virtual open houses as concerns regarding dual-language programs and low-income populations arise.
Austin – The Austin Independent School District (AISD) has unveiled a draft proposal to close 13 schools, comprising 11 elementary schools and 2 middle schools, due to declining student enrollment and a significant budget deficit of $19.7 million. If the proposal is approved, the district anticipates saving approximately $25 million immediately.
The schools identified for potential closure include Becker Elementary, Barrington, Bryker Woods, Dawson, Maplewood, Oak Springs, Palm, Ridgetop, Sunset Valley, and Widen elementary schools; Bedichek and Martin middle schools; and Winn Montessori School. These closures would result in nearly a quarter of AISD’s 70,000 students being rezoned to different schools.
The AISD Board of Trustees is scheduled to review the proposal and vote on November 20, with the intention for the closures to take effect in the 2026-27 school year. Superintendent Matias Segura expressed that the district must confront its financial challenges to retain local control over public schools, stressing the potential for state intervention if inaction continues.
Parent Joseph Arriaga has conveyed disappointment regarding the potential closure of Becker Elementary, highlighting its importance to families and the dual-language programs it offers. The district recognizes the implications of these proposed changes on its dual-language initiatives, with plans to relocate these programs to other campuses, which may influence students’ access to their cultural education.
Furthermore, a majority of the proposed closures affect elementary campuses that serve low-income populations, with several schools rated academically unacceptable by state standards. The district aims to fine-tune attendance boundaries to guarantee students have access to essential resources and educational programs, adapting to changing demographics and enrollment trends.
In light of these developments, feedback opportunities will be provided for community members through virtual open houses. However, reactions among parents have been mixed, with some expressing frustrations over a perceived lack of communication from the district throughout the decision-making process. Education Austin, the district’s teachers union, also expressed concern about the community impact of the proposed closures and emphasized the need for advocacy from families.
The overall goal of the AISD is to better allocate resources and serve students more effectively by consolidating underused schools in response to financial realities. The unfolding situation highlights the need for creative solutions and community engagement, affirming that the plan has yet to be finalized and remains open to public input.
Key Facts
- Proposed School Closures: 13 campuses including 11 elementary and 2 middle schools.
- Budget Deficit: $19.7 million driving the need for closures.
- Estimated Savings: Approximately $25 million if closures are implemented.
- Students Affected: Nearly 25% of AISD’s 70,000 students may be rezoned.
- Decision Timeline: AISD Board of Trustees to vote on November 20.
Community Engagement
Feedback opportunities for community members will be available through virtual open houses to discuss the potential impacts of the school closures.
Potential Consequences
The closures may disrupt dual-language programs and disproportionately affect low-income populations served by the districts’ struggling school campuses.
Background Context
The AISD’s decision is rooted in ongoing declines in student enrollment, necessitating resource reallocation and adjustments to adapt to changing demographics and educational needs.
FAQ
What schools are proposed for closure in the AISD?
The schools identified for potential closure include Becker Elementary, Barrington, Bryker Woods, Dawson, Maplewood, Oak Springs, Palm, Ridgetop, Sunset Valley, and Widen elementary schools; Bedichek and Martin middle schools; and Winn Montessori School.
What is the budget deficit driving the proposed changes?
The proposed closures are a response to declining student enrollment and a budget deficit of $19.7 million.
When will the AISD Board vote on the proposal?
The AISD Board of Trustees is set to review the proposal and vote on November 20, with the intent for changes to take place in the 2026-27 school year.
Closure Impact Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Schools Proposed for Closure | 13 |
| Types of Schools | 11 Elementary, 2 Middle |
| Estimated Savings | $25 million |
| Student Impact | ~25% of 70,000 students |
| Decision Date | November 20 |
| Projected Implementation Year | 2026-27 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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
Texas Education Agency Investigates Teacher Comments Post-Assassination
AISD Holds Final Virtual Meeting on School Consolidations
Austin Independent School District Initiates School Consolidation
Texas State University Student Expelled for Mocking Shooting Victim
Austin Schools Under Pressure to Submit Improvement Plans
University of Texas at Austin Ends Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy
AISD Weighs School Consolidations Amid Enrollment Challenges
Additional Resources
- Statesman
- Wikipedia: Austin Independent School District
- KXAN
- Google Search: Austin ISD School Closures 2026
- KVUE
- Google Scholar: Austin ISD School Closures
- CBS Austin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Austin ISD School Closures
- Community Impact
- Google News: Austin ISD School Closures 2026
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
