SAN ANTONIO – During North East Independent School District’s school board meeting on Monday, trustees discussed the possibility of closing 16 elementary school campuses. This consideration comes as the district faces a significant decrease in enrollment, prompting officials to evaluate the operational efficiency of its schools.
District spokesperson Aubrey Mike Chancellor emphasized the urgency of the situation. “We’re in a deficit as enrollment continues to decrease. We have to look at making some tough decisions,” she stated. This statement underscores the financial pressures the district is facing, as fewer students translate to reduced funding.
Despite the alarming number of schools under consideration, Chancellor reassured parents that the district does not plan to close all 16 schools. “We do not plan to close 16 schools,” she clarified, indicating that a smaller number may ultimately be affected.
The 16 campuses identified for potential closure are being evaluated based on specific criteria: low utilization rates, costs per student exceeding the district average by 5%, and low enrollment figures. This analysis aims to ensure that the district’s resources are allocated effectively.
Chancellor explained that a unique demographic factor plays a significant role in the district’s challenges: “For North East specifically, one of the main factors is that about 70% of people in any ISD do not have school-aged children.” This statistic highlights the shifting population dynamics and their impact on local schools.
One of the campuses under consideration is Castle Hills Elementary, which has drawn concern from local parents. Luke Harris, a parent of two children at the school, expressed his disappointment. “I think of charter schools and the private school vouchers,” he said. “It doesn’t surprise me now. It’s awful. I went to school there. It’s a great school.”
The implications of school closures extend beyond current students. Daniel Tenorio and his girlfriend Michelle, who are planning for their future family, noted that the proximity of Castle Hills Elementary was a significant factor in their home-buying decision. “A big factor was the school literally right across the street from the house,” Tenorio remarked. The potential closure has prompted him to reconsider the long-term value of his home investment.
Tenorio also expressed concern about the future use of the property if the school were to close. Chancellor addressed this concern, stating that there would be a plan for any closed campus. “One goal throughout this entire process is to not leave an empty building for a community,” she assured residents.
Chancellor also noted that not all campuses on the list are equally at risk of closure. “There are several that are on the list that would not even be under consideration for closure or consolidation because they already have specialized programs or they were impacted by our last consolidations,” she explained.
The district’s efficiency committee will conduct a thorough evaluation of the identified elementary schools. Chancellor indicated that recommendations regarding which campuses to close could be presented to the school board by December of this year, signaling an impending decision that may reshape the educational landscape in the North East Independent School District.
