AT A GLANCE
• Judson ISD will close Judson Middle School after the 2025–2026 school year
• SAISD plans closure of Rhodes Middle School under partnership model
• Carvajal Elementary also identified for closure and replacement
• Declining enrollment and funding pressures driving district decisions
Aging Schools and Budget Deficits Drive Major Changes in Local Education Systems
In San Antonio, multiple school closures are reshaping local education as districts confront superintendent turnover, financial strain, aging facilities, and declining student enrollment. Recent decisions from San Antonio Independent School District and Judson Independent School District highlight a growing trend impacting students, families, and entire communities.
Judson ISD to Close Middle School
One of the most significant closures comes from Judson Independent School District, where the school board voted unanimously to shut down Judson Middle School at the end of the 2025-2026 school year. District officials cited the deteriorating condition of facilities and a major budget deficit as key reasons behind the decision. According to Judson ISD, maintaining multiple aging campuses would require tens of millions of dollars in repairs, with Judson Middle School alone needing an estimated $54 million dollars in improvements. The district also faces an approximate $37 million dollar budget shortfall, further driving the need for consolidation and long term financial planning.
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This JISD closure has raised concerns among families, particularly regarding student displacement, increased transportation demands, and the loss of a neighborhood school that has long served the community.
SAISD Moves Forward With Rhodes Closure Plan
At the same time, San Antonio Independent School District is moving forward with its own controversial closure proposal involving Rhodes Middle School. District leadership announced plans to close the campus at the end of the current school year as part of a partnership with Third Future Schools.
Under this plan, Rhodes students would be reassigned to Tafolla Middle School, which would be operated by the partner organization while remaining under district oversight. SAISD officials state that this partnership is intended to improve academic outcomes and provide additional support for students.
“It feels like we’re being told to figure it out in a few months, when these decisions had to be years in the making. We understand budgets and aging buildings, but these schools didn’t become old overnight. Where was the long-term planning before it got to this point?”
One parent on social media shared her frustration amidst school closures.
However, the proposal has led to frustration and uncertainty among families. Some parents report they were unprepared for the announcement and are concerned about how the transition may affect academics, extracurricular opportunities, and overall student stability.
San Antonio Independent School District has also identified additional campus changes, including the closure of Carvajal Elementary. District plans suggest these schools could be replaced with a new, modern facility funded through existing bond resources.
Declining Enrollment Driving Funding Loss
SAISD faces a multimillion-dollar deficit after closing more than a dozen campuses, as declining enrollment continues to reduce funding tied to attendance.
“Our Entire Routine Is Built Around That School”
For many residents, the issue extends beyond finances. Schools serve as critical community anchors, particularly in lower income neighborhoods. The loss of campuses like Judson Middle School and Rhodes Middle School raises ongoing concerns about equity, access, and the long term impact on students and families.
One mother on social media states, “Our entire routine is built around that school like drop-offs, pickups, getting to work on time. Moving campuses isn’t small, it changes everyone’s schedule on short notice.”
As school boards move toward final implementation, families across San Antonio are left navigating uncertainty, balancing the potential for improved resources with the reality of losing long standing neighborhood schools.
