Parents and community members gathered outside United Independent School District (UISD) headquarters in Laredo on Friday to protest the district's plan to close or consolidate multiple elementary schools, citing concerns over student safety, transportation, and the loss of neighborhood campuses.
UISD officials have put forward a plan that would close or consolidate five elementary schools across Laredo as the district faces a projected budget deficit of about $44 million and a steady drop in enrollment.
The administration has said the move would help reduce operating costs, improve efficiency, and reallocate staff to stronger campuses without requiring large‑scale layoffs.
An internal review has identified campuses with fewer than 500 students as most likely to be affected, though the district has not yet finalized which specific schools will shut or merge, according to KGNS.
Parents' Main Objections
Parents who attended the protest told reporters they are worried about longer bus rides, more crowded classrooms, and the breakup of established school communities.
Many said their children are used to walking to nearby neighborhood schools and that having to move to campuses farther from home could affect attendance, after‑school care, and parental involvement.
Others questioned whether closing schools was necessary, arguing that the district should first look at other ways to cut costs or boost enrollment before taking away schools that families rely on.
District's Explanation and Next Steps
UISD leadership has said dwindling enrollment and flat state funding have created a financial gap that cannot be fixed by minor cuts alone, United ISD reported.
The district has emphasized that any consolidation would be phased carefully, with staff reassigned rather than fired, and that families would receive detailed information about new attendance zones and transportation routes if the plan moves forward.
A series of public meetings and online surveys is scheduled over the next few weeks so parents can submit feedback before the board votes on a final closure or consolidation plan.
Community Reaction and Future Outlook
The protest marked one of the largest displays of organized opposition so far against the proposal, with signs and chants calling for the district to keep "every school open" and protect local neighborhoods.
Community leaders say they expect more events and organized campaigns in the coming weeks to pressure the board to revise the plan or seek alternative funding solutions.
UISD officials have said the final decision will balance financial reality with family input, but they have also warned that some level of consolidation may be unavoidable if the district is to remain financially stable, as per CBS News.
