Austin ISD proposes district-managed restart for three struggling middle schools

Austin Independent School District leaders on an internal briefing described a district-managed restart as the recommended turnaround strategy for Burnett, Dobie and Webb middle schools, aiming to move each campus to at least a C rating within a two-year window.

The district said the plan would use the Accelerated Campus Excellence (ACE) turnaround model aligned to the Texas Education Agency’s Effective Schools Framework (ESF), and would include new school leadership and staffing, extended learning time focused on reading and math, stronger family and community partnerships, social-emotional supports and a performance-management system that relies on interim assessments. The district plans to present a final recommendation to the board for approval by June 12, 2025, and to submit approved turnaround plans to the Texas Education Agency by June 30, 2025.

Dr. Angel Wilson, assistant superintendent of secondary schools, told the briefing that “turnaround plans require a laser focus on generating significant and sustainable growth and student achievement, with the ultimate goal of earning at least a C rating within the 2 year time frame.” She said the district is recommending an AISD-managed restart that would preserve neighborhood schools while requiring new campus leadership and…