Parents, Teachers Rally Against Austin ISDs Plan to Close 13 Schools

Parents, students, and teachers gathered outside Pease Elementary to protest the Austin Independent School District's plan to close 13 schools to alleviate a $20 million budget deficit. District leaders maintain that the closures are crucial to address approximately 25,000 vacant seats in local schools. Attendees expressed frustration over a lack of communication from officials, with one parent stating, “We were not included in the discussions. ” AISD unveiled its initial closure proposal on October 3 and released a revised plan last week after receiving over 7,000 public comments, yet the same 13 schools remain targeted for closure. Families from Galindo Elementary are particularly affected, as they will absorb students from Dawson and Joslin Elementary, both on the closure list.

Judith Swanson, a former teacher, warned of potential emotional consequences for students as vital classroom connections are severed. The school board is set to vote on the plan on November 20, marking a significant moment in a contentious debate. Parents like JJ Flurry from Widen Elementary are calling for more time to explore alternatives.