Arlington ISD board votes to permanently close Blanton Elementary

The Arlington Independent School District Board of Trustees voted Jan. 20 to approve a resolution authorizing the permanent closure of Blanton Elementary effective at the end of the 2025–2026 school year. Motion by President Justin Chapa, second by Vice‑President Sarah McMurrough; the board recorded the vote as "Voting For: 7 Voting Against: 0." The vote followed a staff presentation and community engagement process.

Superintendent Smith and district administrators — including Deputy Superintendent Jennifer Collins; Assistant Superintendent of Facilities William Horn; Chief Operations Officer Dr. Michael Hill; Chief Human Resources Officer Scott Kahl; Chief Schools Officer Dr. Bret Champion; and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Steven Wurtz — summarized the district's findings, described in-person and virtual engagement with families and staff, and outlined a proposed administrative timeline should the board proceed. Staff said the district plans to repurpose the 2013 addition for another Arlington ISD use. Trustees who spoke during the discussion emphasized supporting students, families and staff during the transition. The meeting record notes that the public could access the session via the AISD website, www.aisd.net.

The resolution carried unanimously. The minutes state: "Motion by President Chapa second by Vice‑President McMurrough, to approve the motion as presented." The record does not include the full text of staff recommendations beyond the summary presented to trustees; details on the repurposing plan and transition supports were described as part of staff's proposed next steps and are to be handled administratively.