Every School on the Table: Austin ISD to Decide Closures by Fall 2025

Austin ISD is set to undergo significant transformations. The district plans to close and consolidate schools due to persistent budget deficits and decreased student enrollment. 

The district announced that the decision follows a six-year period without increased state funding, alongside a decline of nearly 1,000 students since the 2021–22 school year.

AISD is facing a significant challenge, with approximately 25,000 vacant seats across its campuses, highlighting an urgent need for resource realignment. Raechel French, the planning director for AISD, emphasized the importance of taking a challenging yet essential step to prevent detrimental campus budget cuts.

A consolidation plan is currently being developed. Specific schools slated for closure or merger are expected to be identified by fall 2025. Changes may be implemented as soon as the 2026–27 school year.

The district is in the process of creating a decision-making tool designed to enhance transparency. This initiative integrates community feedback while emphasizing core values, including equity and student success. Enrollment levels will be crucial in determining which schools may be considered for consolidation.

French stated, “We have some campuses that are experiencing significant over-enrollment while others are facing considerable under-enrollment.” In response to inquiries about the potential closure of schools such as Dobie, Webb, and Burnet middle schools—institutions that have faced ongoing academic challenges—French stated, “Every school is on the table at this point.”

High-performing schools face uncertainties regarding their protection. The district's FAQs state, “While accountability ratings will be a factor, a high rating does not mean a school is exempt from consideration.”

AISD is actively gathering community input via surveys and additional outreach efforts. “We’re not questioning the decision to close schools, but rather exploring how we can improve the process compared to previous efforts,” stated French, addressing critiques of earlier closure strategies. 

A comprehensive consolidation and transition plan is anticipated by mid-fall 2025.