San Antonio, February 12, 2026
The Judson Independent School District in San Antonio has announced plans to close four schools to address a significant $37 million budget deficit. After a 6-1 vote by the Board of Trustees, one middle school and three elementary schools are set to be closed in the 2026-2027 academic year. A special meeting is scheduled to finalize the closures, as Trustee José Macias Jr. advocates for a more cautious approach amidst community concerns over the impacts on students and families.
San Antonio, Texas
Judson Independent School District (ISD) has announced plans to close four schools in the 2026-2027 academic year to address a projected $37 million budget deficit.
Decision to Close Four Schools
The Judson ISD Board of Trustees voted 6-1 on February 9, 2026, to close one middle school and three elementary schools. While the specific campuses have not yet been determined, a special meeting is scheduled for February 14, 2026, to discuss and finalize the list of schools for closure. A final vote is expected on February 16, 2026. Trustee José Macias Jr. was the only member to oppose the closure plan, advocating for a more gradual approach to address the district’s challenges.
Financial Challenges and Enrollment Decline
The proposed closures come at a time when the district is facing substantial financial challenges, including a projected $37 million budget deficit for the 2025-2026 school year. This deficit results from declining enrollment figures and the conclusion of pandemic-era funding. Enrollment is projected to decrease from about 22,600 students to approximately 21,100 students by the fall of 2030.
Community and Trustee Reactions
Board President Monica Ryan emphasized the importance of taking decisive action to stabilize the district for the next three to five years. She also mentioned that redrawing district boundaries could provide an opportunity to ensure equity and optimize resources throughout the district. On the other hand, Trustee Suzanne Kenoyer expressed concerns regarding the potential impact on students and the community, arguing for a more cautious approach to the closures.
Next Steps
Judson ISD plans to hold several meetings to determine which specific schools will be closed, involving district officials, trustees, and community members to ensure a comprehensive decision-making process. The final decision regarding the closures is expected to occur by February 16, 2026.
Background Context
Judson ISD, located in San Antonio, Texas, is the fourth-largest school district in the area, currently serving over 20,000 students. The district has encountered budget deficits over recent years, prompting discussions about potential school closures and other cost-saving measures. This closure initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at addressing financial shortfalls and adapting to shifting enrollment patterns.
FAQ
Which schools are being considered for closure in Judson ISD?
The specific schools to be closed have not yet been determined. A special meeting is scheduled for February 14, 2026, to discuss and finalize the list of schools for closure. A final vote is expected on February 16, 2026.
What is the reason for the proposed school closures in Judson ISD?
The proposed school closures are part of a strategy to address a projected $37 million budget deficit for the 2025-2026 school year, attributed to declining enrollment and the end of pandemic-era funding.
When will the final decision on school closures be made?
The final decision on which schools will be closed is expected to be made by February 16, 2026.
How will the community be involved in the decision-making process?
The district plans to hold a series of meetings involving district officials, trustees, and community members to determine which specific schools will be closed, ensuring a thorough and transparent decision-making process.
What is the current enrollment trend in Judson ISD?
Judson ISD’s enrollment is projected to decrease from approximately 22,600 students to about 21,100 students by the fall of 2030.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Decision to Close Schools | Judson ISD Board of Trustees voted 6-1 to close one middle school and three elementary schools. Specific campuses to be closed have not yet been determined. |
| Financial Challenges | Facing a $37 million budget deficit for the 2025-2026 school year due to declining enrollment and the end of pandemic-era funding. |
| Community Involvement | District plans to hold meetings involving officials, trustees, and community members to determine which schools will be closed. |
| Enrollment Projections | Enrollment projected to decrease from approximately 22,600 students to about 21,100 students by the fall of 2030. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
NEISD Proposes $495 Million Bond for Infrastructure Upgrades
SAISD Adopts $541.1 Million Budget to Address Deficit
San Antonio School District Approves $541.1 Million Budget
San Antonio School Districts Prepare for Icy Weather Conditions
San Antonio Schools Facing Heating Challenges Amid Cold Weather
San Antonio Schools Prepare for President’s Day Weekend
Community Concerns Rise Over Proposed School Closures in San Antonio
San Antonio Schools Prepare for Winter Weather Safety
San Antonio Schools Adjust to Winter Weather Conditions
Major Weekend Construction on I-35 Impacts Driving
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.
