School Board Considers Judson Middle School Closure Amid $10M Budget Cuts

Judson Independent School District (JISD) is grappling with significant budget cuts, with a potential closure of Judson Middle School on the table as a cost-saving measure. During a recent budget workshop, board members discussed the implications of closing the school, which could save approximately $1.7 million by eliminating administrative positions and repurposing the campus. However, concerns about overcrowding, transportation costs, and the impact on students and parents were raised.

One board member expressed strong reservations about the decision, emphasizing the need to consider the financial impact on hourly workers and the community. "If we're asking for all the cuts, then we should be reducing everybody by some amount," they stated, indicating a desire for a more equitable approach to budget reductions.

The discussion highlighted the complexities of closing a school, including the need for careful planning around student transportation and boundary adjustments. Board members acknowledged that any decision would require significant communication with parents and a thoughtful transition process.

While some members advocated for keeping the closure option on the table for future consideration, others cautioned against rushing into a decision without adequate time for planning and community input. "We have to cut $10 million somewhere," one member noted, stressing the urgency of the situation.

As the board prepares for a new group of members to take over, the consensus appears to lean towards further exploration of the middle school closure, with a focus on ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and involved in the decision-making process. The next steps will involve gathering more data and feedback from the community before any final decisions are made.