Dobie School parents urge school board to reconsider closure plans

Parents and educators voiced deep concerns over the potential closure of Dobie School during the Board Regular Voting Meeting on April 24, 2025. The emotional testimonies highlighted a growing frustration with the lack of support from the district, as families fear losing their community and educational opportunities.

A parent of a Dobie student expressed sorrow over the situation, stating, "Never did I believe this was gonna happen," and pleaded with the board, "Please do not close our school." This sentiment echoed throughout the meeting, as speakers emphasized the need for transparent communication and adequate resources to prevent further school closures.

Ty Wellman, an instructional coach at Dobie, urged collaboration between schools, saying, "We are on opposite sides of the same wound," and called for a unified approach to address the needs of both Dobie and Lamar Middle School. He stressed the importance of presenting a collective request to the superintendent for necessary support, highlighting the urgency for healing and improvement.

Brian Roper, a concerned parent, criticized the allocation of $4.6 million for modular buildings at Lamar, arguing that those funds could be better spent on a turnaround plan for Dobie. He implored the board to consider the impact of their decisions on the community, advocating for a vote that prioritizes the needs of Dobie and its families.

The meeting underscored the critical crossroads facing Dobie School, with parents and educators rallying for support and a commitment to preserving their educational community. As discussions continue, the future of Dobie remains uncertain, but the voices of its advocates are clear: they are determined to fight for their school and its students.