Austin, August 20, 2025
News Summary
The Austin Independent School District is moving towards closing several campuses due to declining enrollment and a significant budget deficit. With current enrollment around 73,000 students and a goal of achieving at least 85% enrollment by the 2026-27 school year, AISD aims to save nearly $30 million through these consolidations. Community feedback will be gathered before final decisions are made in November, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder involvement in the planning process.
Austin
The Austin Independent School District (AISD) is planning to close and consolidate several campuses in response to declining student enrollment and significant budget cuts. Superintendent Matias Segura revealed that current enrollment has dropped to approximately 73,000 students, marking a decline from previous years.
The district aims to achieve a minimum of 85% enrollment across all campuses by the 2026-27 school year. Superintendent Segura has indicated that multiple schools will be affected, stating that the number of schools potentially facing closure will exceed “more than a handful.” However, a precise number has not been disclosed at this stage.
To address the financial challenges, AISD plans to save about $30 million through these campus consolidations. A recent district report identified campuses with the highest number of vacant seats, which will help inform decisions moving forward. Before any schools are officially closed, AISD will collect feedback from the community and stakeholders, with a recommendation expected in early October.
Evaluating School Closures
The evaluation process implemented by AISD utilizes a two-part tool that assesses various factors including building utilization, cost per student, facility conditions, and transportation access. Among the schools being considered for consolidation are Ridgetop, Blackshear, and Maplewood Elementary Schools, Covington Middle School, and McCallum High School.
Budget Deficits and Funding Cuts
AISD is currently facing a projected budget deficit of $19.7 million. This deficit arises from considerable reductions in local, state, and federal funding, with federal funding cut by as much as 56%. Despite these financial challenges, the district has reported a healthy teacher attrition rate of 5%, which aids in managing staffing changes and absorbing some job transitions.
In addition to addressing enrollment and financial issues, AISD is implementing new laws that include restrictions on cell phone use within schools, as well as a requirement to post the Ten Commandments in classrooms. However, the district has indicated they will not be posting the Ten Commandments due to limitations in resources.
Community engagement is a key part of the decision-making process for AISD. Superintendent Segura emphasized the importance of collaboration with community members, stating that no specific plans or campuses have been finalized yet. Community feedback sessions are scheduled from October 9 to November 13, 2025, leading up to a final vote on the consolidation plan, which is set for November 20, 2025.
Conclusion
As AISD navigates declining enrollment and budgetary constraints, the district’s plans for campus closures and consolidations will significantly impact many students and families. Continued community input and engagement will play a crucial role in shaping the future of AISD as they work towards a sustainable educational system.
FAQ Section
Frequently Asked Questions
What is prompting AISD to consider closing schools?
AISD is experiencing declining enrollment and a projected budget deficit, necessitating cost-saving measures such as campus closures and consolidations.
How many schools are expected to be affected by these plans?
While Superintendent Segura has noted that more than a handful of schools will likely be impacted, the exact number has yet to be determined.
What is the timeframe for community involvement in this process?
Community feedback sessions are scheduled from October 9 to November 13, 2025, with a final vote on the recommendations expected on November 20, 2025.
When does AISD aim to have campuses at 85% enrollment?
The district aims for all campuses to reach at least 85% enrollment by the 2026-27 school year.
Key Features of AISD’s Campus Consolidation Plans
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Enrollment | Approximately 73,000 students |
| Target Enrollment | At least 85% by the 2026-27 school year |
| Projected Budget Deficit | $19.7 million |
| Estimated Cost Savings | $30 million through consolidations |
| Community Engagement Dates | October 9 – November 13, 2025 |
| Final Vote Date | November 20, 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- KXAN
- Austin Chronicle
- CBS Austin
- KVUE
- K12 Dive
- Wikipedia: Austin Independent School District
- Google Search: Austin Independent School District closures
- Google Scholar: Austin ISD enrollment declines
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Austin Independent School District
- Google News: Austin ISD closure plans
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris 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 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
