Jones Creek residents voice concerns over potential school closures at community meeting

In a heartfelt gathering at the Brazosport ISD Board Meeting, community members voiced their deep concerns over the potential closure of Steen and Austin Elementary School, a cornerstone of their town's identity. The meeting, held on July 14, 2025, saw passionate pleas from parents and residents who believe that the school is not just an educational institution but the very heart of their community.

One parent shared a personal story about the challenges faced by families if the school were to close. With six children, including two on the way, the speaker highlighted the logistical nightmare that would ensue, emphasizing the hardships of busing children to distant schools. “The closure of that school is going to bring hardship to families,” they stated, urging the board to consider interim solutions that would allow students to remain in their local school.

Another resident, Wes Tidwell, echoed these sentiments, arguing that the school has historically been a gathering place for families and a reason many chose to settle in the area. He warned that closing the school could push families to seek educational options elsewhere, including private schools or homeschooling, which could further diminish the district's enrollment. “We need to be trying to figure out how to keep kids in our school district, not trying to give them the leads,” Tidwell urged.

Deborah Joyce Collins, a long-time resident and descendant of the family that donated land for the school, expressed her dismay at the prospect of closure. She recounted her own experiences growing up in the area and the support systems that once existed for students. Collins emphasized the need for the board to consider the socio-economic challenges many families face, particularly those with limited transportation options. “I can’t even imagine a school board doing that to these children,” she lamented.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the community's attachment to Steen and Austin Elementary runs deep. Residents are not only concerned about the immediate impact on their children’s education but also about the broader implications for their town's future. The discussions highlighted a collective desire to preserve the school as a vital part of their community fabric, urging the board to explore creative solutions to keep it open.

The board's decision will not only affect the educational landscape but also the emotional and social well-being of families in the Brazosport area. As the community awaits the board's response, the voices of these passionate residents serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of local schools in fostering community ties and supporting families.