San Antonio, January 22, 2026
The San Antonio Independent School District Board of Trustees has unanimously decided to close Carvajal Elementary School at the end of the 2025-2026 school year due to declining enrollment and academic performance issues. The school, which has served its community for over 75 years, has seen a significant drop in student numbers and has received consecutive failing ratings. The district plans to reassign students and staff to nearby schools and retain funds to support future development on the Carvajal site.
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) Board of Trustees has unanimously voted to close Carvajal Elementary School at the end of the 2025-2026 school year.
The decision was made due to declining enrollment and academic performance concerns. Carvajal Elementary has experienced a significant decrease in student numbers, losing nearly 200 students since 2020. Additionally, the school has received consecutive “F” ratings from the Texas Education Agency, raising concerns about its academic outcomes.
In response to the closure, SAISD plans to reassign the 319 students and staff to nearby schools. The district has also committed to retaining $28.6 million in unspent bond funds to support the construction of a new, modern school on the Carvajal site.
Carvajal Elementary, located in one of San Antonio’s most economically disadvantaged areas, has been serving the community for over 75 years. The decision to close the school reflects broader challenges faced by SAISD, including declining enrollment and the need to optimize resources.
Why Close Carvajal Elementary?
Carvajal Elementary’s closure is largely driven by the stark reality of declining student enrollment and troubling academic performance metrics. The school has struggled to maintain its student population, shedding nearly 200 students since 2020. This dwindling enrollment has coincided with consecutive failing grades from the Texas Education Agency, underscoring a persistent challenge in meeting educational standards.
Reassignment of Students and Staff
The affected students and staff will be reassigned to neighboring schools, a necessary step to ensure that educational resources are utilized effectively and that students receive better support. This transition will be closely monitored to address any concerns that arise during the process and to maintain educational quality for all students involved.
Future of the Carvajal Site
SAISD remains committed to the site’s potential for future educational development. The retention of $28.6 million in unspent bond funds signifies a forward-looking strategy, aimed at constructing a modern school that aligns more closely with the needs of the community. This investment not only reflects the district’s commitment to educational improvement but also demonstrates a willingness to adapt to changing conditions in student demographics and educational needs.
The Community and Educational Landscape
For over 75 years, Carvajal Elementary has held a significant place within its economically disadvantaged community. Its legacy is one of resilience, despite the recent challenges faced. The closure serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of educational environments in our communities, especially in areas that have faced economic hurdles. This transition may open doors for new opportunities within the district that can better meet the needs of its students.
Conclusion
The decision to close Carvajal Elementary is a reflection of both challenges and opportunities within the SAISD framework. With strategic planning and resource reallocation, there is potential for substantial improvement in educational delivery for students in the area. Local residents are encouraged to stay engaged with developments in the education sector and to support initiatives that foster sustainable growth and improvement in San Antonio’s schools.
Key Features of the Carvajal Elementary School Closure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Closure Decision | Unanimous vote by SAISD Board of Trustees to close Carvajal Elementary at the end of the 2025-2026 school year. |
| Reasons for Closure | Declining enrollment and consecutive “F” ratings from the Texas Education Agency. |
| Student and Staff Reassignment | 319 students and staff to be reassigned to nearby schools. |
| Financial Commitment | Retention of $28.6 million in unspent bond funds to support construction of a new school on the Carvajal site. |
| Community Impact | Carvajal Elementary has been serving the community for over 75 years in an economically disadvantaged area. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Heating Issues Affect San Antonio ISD Schools During Cold Snap
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
