AISD Excludes Three Schools from Closure Plans and Postpones Districtwide Rezoning
The Austin Independent School District (AISD) has announced significant changes regarding three elementary schools. Bryker Woods, Maplewood, and Palm elementary schools will not be included in the district’s immediate closure strategy. This decision was communicated by AISD Superintendent Matias Segura through an email to parents.
AISD Plans for School Closures and Changes
While three schools are excluded from closure plans, AISD will proceed to close ten other schools and relocate dual language programs. The board will vote on these changes on November 20, 2023. Furthermore, districtwide rezoning will not be addressed until fall 2026.
Background on School Closures
The Texas Education Agency mandates these turnaround plans in response to consecutive failing accountability ratings. If the mentioned schools continue to struggle academically, AISD risks facing a state takeover, similar to the current situation with the Houston Independent School District.
Community Feedback and Involvement
Less than a week before this announcement, district officials signaled a commitment to boundary and enrollment adjustments. Parents, such as Gerardo Coronado, whose child attends Bryker Woods, expressed surprise at the postponement of the vote but voiced hopes that it stemmed from community input. Parents have long advocated for Bryker Woods to remain operational, especially since it is the district’s only international baccalaureate elementary school.
- Gerardo Coronado’s remarks: He mentioned that many families have the option of charter or private schools and that community efforts play a vital role in sustaining district enrollment.
Segura acknowledged the importance of community engagement in making these decisions. He emphasized that careful consideration of community input is crucial for generational changes. “This will allow us to ensure all ideas from our community can be considered in our plan,” Segura stated.
Financial Pressures and Future Elections
Despite the postponement, Segura indicated that urgent action is necessary due to the district’s budget deficit and declining enrollment rates. The school board is expected to vote on other outlined changes during the next academic year.
The district and board members did not provide comments immediately prior to the publication of this information. AISD continues to navigate complex educational challenges while striving to maintain its community’s support and integrity.
