Later this month, the Aldine ISD Board of Trustees will vote on a proposal to close seven schools within the district, citing a significant drop in student enrollment over the past decade.
The schools under consideration for closure include Stovall EC/PK/K School, de Santiago EC/PK/K School, Eckert Elementary School, Oleson Elementary School, Raymond Elementary School, Smith Elementary School, and Hoffman Middle School, according to our news partner ABC13 Houston.
Enrollment Decline and Financial Considerations
Aldine ISD has experienced a sharp decline in student numbers, dropping from 70,417 students in the 2015-16 school year to just 56,141 in 2024-25. A district-conducted study attributes this 20% decrease to several factors, including lower birth rates, rising housing costs, fewer new housing developments, and the growing popularity of charter schools and homeschooling.
Despite declining student numbers, the affected schools still require full staffing and maintenance, contributing to financial strain. District officials estimate that closing the campuses could save approximately $32 million.
Past Closures and Future Plans
This move follows a similar decision last year when Aldine ISD shut down three elementary schools for the same reasons. If the board approves the current proposal, the seven campuses would close at the end of the school year. The district plans to evaluate each site individually to determine whether to repurpose, sell, or demolish the buildings.
Community Concerns
Many parents express concerns about the timing of the decision, stating that they feel blindsided by the announcement and uncertain about their children’s school assignments for the next academic year.
The Board of Trustees is scheduled to vote on the proposal on February 25.
Keep up with this developing story with us on Que Onda Magazine.
