Judson Independent School District (JISD) faced significant community pushback during its regular board meeting on December 19, 2024, as parents and students expressed deep concerns over a proposal to relocate incoming students to a new campus. Many parents reported being unaware of the proposal, which had not been adequately communicated by the board, leading to feelings of alarm and confusion among families.

During the meeting, several students voiced their distress over potentially losing their established roles in clubs and sports if the proposal were approved. One student shared, “I’m gonna be the editor in chief of the yearbook,” highlighting the emotional toll this decision could have on students who have invested years into their current school community. Parents echoed these sentiments, arguing that uprooting students would disrupt their progress and relationships built over time.

The board had previously promised to gather student feedback through a survey, but many students, including those at J STEM, reported not receiving it. This lack of engagement raised concerns about the board's commitment to involving the community in significant decisions that affect their children’s education. One student articulated the frustration felt by many, stating, “It seems like the board has made very little effort to involve everyone who will be impacted.”

In addition to the discussions surrounding the campus relocation, the meeting also featured passionate pleas from parents and students advocating for the continuation of the Spanish immersion program at Wortham Oaks Elementary. Parents highlighted the program's success in fostering academic excellence and community bonds, urging the board to allow it to thrive rather than sunset it due to enrollment concerns.

The board's decision-making process was criticized for being rushed and lacking transparency, with community members calling for more thorough discussions and genuine engagement before any votes are cast. As the meeting concluded, the urgency for the board to reconsider its approach to community involvement and communication was clear, with many advocating for a pause to ensure that all voices are heard in shaping the future of JISD.