The Killeen Independent School District (KISD) is implementing significant changes to address financial and enrollment challenges. In a move approved by the board of trustees on October 28, the district will close three campuses as part of its District Optimization plan. This decision impacts several schools and aims to streamline resources amidst declining enrollment and reduced federal funding.
This restructuring involves closing Peebles Elementary School, Palo Alto Middle School, and Eastern Hills Middle School. These closures are projected to save the district millions of dollars over the next five years. The changes also include reassigning students to different schools and repurposing one of the closed campuses.
This article will delve into the details of these closures, the reasons behind them, the impact on students and the community, and the district’s plans for the future. We will explore the financial challenges KISD faces and how these changes are intended to optimize resources and improve student outcomes.
Peebles Elementary School Closure
Peebles Elementary School, a long-standing institution since 1960, is set to close at the end of the 2025-26 school year. This closure will affect approximately 457 students, who will be reassigned to nearby schools such as Brookhaven, Cavazos, Clifton Park, and Killeen Elementary. Despite the closure, Peebles has shown academic improvement, increasing its state accountability score from an F to a B.
The decision to close Peebles came after a comprehensive evaluation by Civic Solutions Group, a consulting firm working with KISD. The initial proposal suggested closing both Peebles and Hay Branch Elementary, potentially saving the district around $45 million over five years. Trustee Oliver Mintz proposed delaying the closure of Hay Branch for at least a year due to economic concerns in the northern part of the district.
“Peebles Elementary has been a cornerstone of our community for decades,” said Superintendent King Davis. “Closing it was a difficult decision, but necessary to ensure the long-term financial health of the district.” The closure of Peebles highlights the difficult choices KISD faces in balancing its budget and providing quality education.
Parents and community members have expressed mixed feelings about the closure. While some understand the financial pressures, others are concerned about the impact on students and the loss of a neighborhood school. KISD is working to ensure a smooth transition for students and staff affected by the closure.
Palo Alto and Eastern Hills Middle Schools Closure
In addition to Peebles Elementary, KISD will close Palo Alto and Eastern Hills Middle Schools by the end of this academic year. Palo Alto will be repurposed as a District Alternative Education Placement (DAEP) campus. Students from both middle schools will be rezoned to other local middle schools, projecting savings of about $19 million over five years.
Community feedback regarding these middle school closures has been varied, with more staff members supporting the decision compared to parents and community members. Both middle schools have faced academic challenges, leading to scrutiny from the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
TEA has mandated KISD to develop a turnaround plan for its underperforming campuses, including Eastern Hills and Manor Middle School, which has also experienced declining scores. These closures are part of a broader effort to address academic deficiencies and optimize resource allocation within the district.
“We are not simply closing schools,” explained Superintendent Davis. “We are reallocating resources to better support our students and improve academic outcomes across the district.” The closures are intended to consolidate resources and provide more focused support to remaining schools.
Financial Challenges and Optimization
KISD faces significant financial challenges due to declining enrollment and the loss of federal funding. These factors have created a need to optimize the use of district resources to ensure financial stability and maintain quality education. The District Optimization plan, including the campus closures, is a key part of this effort.
Interim Superintendent King Davis has emphasized that the closures are not merely a response to failing schools but a strategic move to optimize district resources. He noted the financial burden of operating underutilized facilities while ensuring students in underperforming schools receive the necessary support to improve their academic performance.
The board has also approved exploring the implementation of the ACE (Accelerating Campus Excellence) program and the SB 1882 partnership model for Manor Middle School. These initiatives encourage collaboration with charter schools to enhance educational outcomes and provide additional resources to struggling campuses.
“Our goal is to ensure that every student in KISD has access to a high-quality education,” said Superintendent Davis. “By making these difficult decisions, we are positioning the district for long-term success and improved student outcomes.” The financial savings from the closures will be reinvested in programs and initiatives designed to support student achievement.
Community Impact and Support
The closure of these campuses will have a significant impact on the Killeen community. Students, parents, and staff will be affected by the changes. KISD is committed to providing support and resources to help ease the transition.
The district plans to hold meetings and information sessions to address community concerns and provide updates on the optimization plan. Counselors and support staff will be available to assist students and families affected by the closures. KISD is also working to ensure that staff members displaced by the closures are provided with opportunities for reassignment within the district.
“We understand that these changes are difficult for our community,” said Superintendent Davis. “We are committed to working closely with our families and staff to ensure a smooth and supportive transition.” The district recognizes the importance of community engagement and is committed to transparency throughout the optimization process.
Local organizations and community leaders are also stepping up to provide support. These efforts include organizing volunteer programs, providing tutoring services, and offering resources to help families adjust to the changes. The Killeen community is known for its resilience and its commitment to supporting its students and schools.
Future Plans for KISD
As KISD navigates these changes, the board remains focused on the long-term goal of improving student performance while being fiscally responsible to the community. The district plans to reinvest the savings from the campus closures into programs and initiatives designed to enhance educational outcomes.
These initiatives include expanding access to early childhood education, providing additional support for struggling learners, and investing in technology and resources to enhance classroom instruction. KISD is also committed to attracting and retaining high-quality teachers and staff members.
The district is exploring innovative approaches to education, such as personalized learning and project-based learning, to better meet the needs of its diverse student population. KISD is also working to strengthen partnerships with local businesses and community organizations to provide students with real-world learning opportunities.
“We are committed to creating a brighter future for our students,” said Superintendent Davis. “By making these strategic investments, we are positioning KISD to be a leader in education and a source of pride for our community.” The district is confident that these changes will lead to improved student outcomes and a stronger, more vibrant community.
Conclusion
The Killeen Independent School District’s decision to close three campuses is a significant step in addressing its financial and enrollment challenges. While these closures will have a considerable impact on students, families, and staff, KISD is committed to providing support and resources to ensure a smooth transition. The district’s long-term goal is to optimize resource allocation, improve student outcomes, and ensure financial stability.
The closures of Peebles Elementary, Palo Alto Middle School, and Eastern Hills Middle School are part of a broader District Optimization plan aimed at streamlining resources and addressing academic deficiencies. The savings from these closures will be reinvested in programs and initiatives designed to support student achievement and enhance educational opportunities.
As KISD navigates these changes, the board remains focused on the future. By embracing innovative approaches to education, strengthening community partnerships, and investing in its students and staff, KISD is positioning itself for long-term success. The Killeen community is resilient and committed to supporting its students, and together, they will overcome these challenges and create a brighter future for all.
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