In a recent Plano ISD board meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to the proposed closure of Davis Elementary School, which serves a specialized population of deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Katie Strong, a dyslexia therapist and parent, emphasized the unique environment Davis provides, blending its Regional Day School for the Deaf with mainstream education. She argued that the school's culture, built over decades, cannot be easily replicated elsewhere, highlighting the emotional and social acceptance that deaf students experience at Davis.

Rebecca Mattern, a former parent at Davis, echoed Strong's sentiments, stressing that the community surrounding the school has developed a protective and inclusive atmosphere for children with special needs. She warned that relocating the school would disrupt this established support network, which has taken years to cultivate.

Other speakers, including parents and staff from Foreman Elementary, also expressed concerns about potential closures. Francisco, a staff member at Foreman, shared his emotional connection to the school, describing it as a community hub that has faced neglect in terms of maintenance and funding. He criticized the decision-making process, suggesting that it unfairly targets schools based on budgetary constraints rather than the needs of the community.

Chad Mustaine, a local faith leader, pointed out the lack of representation from the deaf community in the discussions about school closures, arguing that the process has not adequately considered the impact on families. He called for a reevaluation of the decision, urging the board to prioritize the needs of the Davis community over numerical data.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the proposed closures have sparked significant concern among parents and community members, who fear the loss of not just schools, but the unique cultures and support systems they provide. The board is expected to deliberate further on these issues, with many advocating for a reconsideration of the closure plans.