Doctor Cabrera proposes repurposing Judson Middle School for district office and police department

The Judson Independent School District (JISD) held a special board meeting on May 21, 2025, where significant discussions centered around the potential closure of Judson Middle School and its implications for district revenue and teacher contracts.

One of the key proposals discussed was the idea of repurposing Judson Middle School if it were to close. A speaker suggested relocating the district office, the Educational Resource Center (ERC), JCARE, JTECH, and the police department to the middle school building. This move could potentially transform the site into five commercial properties, which could be sold to generate revenue for the district. The speaker emphasized the importance of hiring a knowledgeable commercial real estate professional to maximize the potential sale value, suggesting that this approach could yield up to $20 million, significantly addressing the district's current revenue challenges.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted concerns regarding teacher contracts. A speaker pointed out that state law mandates contracts for teachers to cover 187 days, indicating that the district would not save money by sending teachers home early on December 19. This clarification aimed to address misconceptions about budget cuts and the financial implications of altering the school calendar.

The meeting also featured remarks from Dr. PJ Cabrera, a professor of journalism and communication, who expressed his appreciation for the community's passion for public education. He noted previous criticisms of the board's behavior and emphasized the need for the board to listen to community concerns.

Overall, the discussions at the JISD meeting underscored the district's financial challenges and the importance of strategic planning in addressing them, while also highlighting the community's commitment to supporting education. The board's next steps will likely involve further exploration of the proposed ideas and continued dialogue with stakeholders.