HOUSTON
The Aldine Independent School District Board has made the difficult decision to close down more elementary schools. This decision comes after a series of factors, including declining student enrollment, a lack of affordable housing in the community, declining birth rates, and decreased state funding.
A History of Closures
In the last two years, Aldine ISD has closed nine campuses. This latest round of closures is a result of the district’s ongoing efforts to address the challenges facing the community.
The Reasons Behind the Closures
The district has stated that the closures are due to several years of declining student enrollment, the lack of affordable housing throughout the community, declining birth rates, and decreased state funding. These factors have made it increasingly difficult for the district to maintain the necessary resources to support its schools.
The Affected Schools
The following schools will be closing at the end of the 2023-2024 school year:
- Smith Elementary School
- Eckert Elementary School
- Stovall E.C./P-K/K School
- De Santiago E.C./P-K/K School
- Oleson Elementary School
- Raymond Elementary School
These schools join Conley Elementary School, Sammons Elementary School, and Gray Elementary School, which were previously shut down in 2024.
What Does This Mean for Students and Families?
The closure of these schools will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the students and families affected. The district will work to ensure a smooth transition for students, including providing resources and support to help them adjust to their new schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are the schools being closed?
A: The schools are being closed due to a combination of factors, including declining student enrollment, lack of affordable housing, declining birth rates, and decreased state funding.
Q: What will happen to the students affected by the closures?
A: The district will work to ensure a smooth transition for students, including providing resources and support to help them adjust to their new schools.
Q: What is being done to address the root causes of the closures?
A: The district is working to address the underlying issues, including finding ways to increase enrollment, addressing the lack of affordable housing, and advocating for increased state funding.
Q: What is the timeline for the closures?
A: The closures will take place at the end of the 2023-2024 school year.
Q: How will the district support students and families affected by the closures?
A: The district will provide resources and support to help students and families adjust to the changes, including counseling, academic support, and other necessary services.
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