School Board Considers Closing Elementary to Save $850,000 in Budget Cuts

Judson Independent School District (JISD) is considering a significant budget-saving measure that could lead to the closure of one elementary school, potentially saving the district approximately $850,000. This proposal, discussed during a recent budget workshop, has raised concerns about the impact on students and families, particularly regarding increased travel times and the need for quick adjustments to school boundaries.

The discussion highlighted the complexities involved in such a decision. While the closure could streamline costs, it would primarily affect the main office staff, as teachers and students would be redirected to nearby campuses. Board members expressed the need for careful planning and communication with parents to mitigate any disruptions.

One board member, Ms. Ryan, emphasized the importance of exploring multiple options for school closures, suggesting that presenting two different schools for consideration could provide a clearer picture of the potential impacts. However, the administration cautioned that quickly drawing new boundary lines for multiple campuses would be a challenging task, indicating a preference to focus on one option at a time.

Additionally, the future of Judson Middle School was briefly discussed, with officials noting that any repurposing of the facility would take time and would not be ready for the fall of 2025. The estimated savings from closing the middle school could reach around $1.7 million, but the logistics of moving students and staff would complicate the timeline.

As JISD navigates these budgetary challenges, the board is committed to keeping all options on the table while ensuring that any decisions made prioritize the well-being of students and families. The next steps will involve further discussions and consultations with demographic experts to determine the best course of action moving forward.