Austin, Texas, October 23, 2025
News Summary
The Austin Independent School District is proposing the closure of 13 schools due to significant budget shortfalls and a drop in student enrollment. If approved, the closure of 11 elementary schools and 2 middle schools could save the district over $25 million. Concerns have been raised by families regarding longer commutes and job security for educators. The AISD aims to host community feedback sessions ahead of the board vote scheduled for November 20, as the implications of these closures are closely monitored by local families.
Austin, Texas – The Austin Independent School District (AISD) is moving forward with a draft plan to close 13 schools in response to a significant budget shortfall and declining student enrollment. This proposal includes the closure of 11 elementary schools and 2 middle schools, which is set for a vote by the AISD Board of Trustees during their meeting on November 20.
The driving forces behind the proposal are the loss of over 10,000 students in the past decade, resulting in 25,000 empty seats within the district. If approved, the plan could save the district more than $20 million in staffing and resources, with estimated total savings at $25.6 million. These savings are aimed at addressing issues of over-enrollment and under-enrollment throughout the AISD.
Concerns have been raised by families connected to Widén Elementary School, where the potential closure would necessitate students being re-zoned to Rodriguez Elementary, located over a mile away. This shift raises fears about longer commutes, which is echoed by families at Bryker Woods Elementary who also foresee similar changes impacting their children’s daily travels.
The proposed plan not only addresses the closure of schools but also suggests modifications to the district’s dual-language programs, focusing on creating a more balanced enrollment pattern within the AISD. Superintendent Matias Segura has asserted the urgency of these changes, indicating that they are a necessary measure to retain local control of AISD and to avert possible interventions from the state.
With the looming threat of school closures, parents and teachers have begun voicing their concerns, particularly regarding job security among educators who may be affected by the proposed consolidation. The AISD has encouraged community engagement by hosting virtual Q&A sessions and providing comment cards for feedback on the draft plan, allowing families to express their views and suggestions.
While the AISD aims to prioritize the retention of current teachers, there are no guarantees regarding future placements, given the uncertainties surrounding the consolidation process. Additionally, specialized programs, such as non-zoned Spanish dual-language and Montessori offerings, would be introduced at selected facilities as part of the proposed changes.
Notifying families about potential school closures has raised concerns about the timing and overall impact on students and their educational environments. As the AISD moves closer to the vote on the draft plan, community members are left with many questions and are monitoring the situation closely.
Key Details of the Proposal
- Closure of 13 schools (11 elementary and 2 middle schools)
- Projected savings of $25.6 million
- Current enrollment down by over 10,000 students in a decade
- 25,000 empty seats in the district
- Vote scheduled for November 20
Community Impact
- Concerns over increased commutes for students transferring schools
- Feedback sessions for parents and teachers
- Job security worries among educators
Specialized Programs
- Introduction of new dual-language and Montessori programs
- Focus on balancing enrollment across schools
Conclusion
AISD is poised to make crucial decisions regarding the future of its schools. As families await the board meeting and the vote, the implications of these potential changes remain a topic of significant discussion within the community.
FAQ
What is the main reason for the proposed school closures in the AISD?
The proposal is driven by a significant budget shortfall and declining student enrollment, with over 10,000 students lost in the past decade, leaving 25,000 empty seats in the district.
What schools are proposed for closure?
The AISD is preparing to present a draft plan to close 13 schools, including 11 elementary and 2 middle schools.
When will the AISD Board of Trustees vote on the plan?
The AISD Board of Trustees is set to vote on the plan during their next meeting on November 20.
What are the potential savings from these closures?
The draft plan could save over $20 million in staffing and resources, with total savings estimated at $25.6 million while addressing over-enrollment and under-enrollment issues.
What will happen to students from closed schools?
If closed, students would be re-zoned to other elementary schools, which may lead to longer commutes for some.
What specialized programs are included in the proposed changes?
As part of the proposed plan, specialized programs, including non-zoned Spanish dual-language and Montessori programs, would be implemented in specific facilities.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Schools Closing | 13 schools (11 elementary and 2 middle schools) |
| Projected Savings | $25.6 million |
| Enrollment Decline | Loss of over 10,000 students in the past decade |
| Empty Seats | 25,000 empty seats in the district |
| Vote Date | November 20 |
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Additional Resources
- CBS Austin: AISD Students Brace for Change
- KVUE: AISD Parent Speaks Out
- KXAN: AISD Consolidation and Teacher Concerns
- Fox 7 Austin: AISD Consolidation Boundary Change Plan
- Wikipedia: Austin Independent School District
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.
