CARROLLTON, Texas – In a decisive move to address financial difficulties, the Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD Board of Trustees voted 6-1 on Thursday night to close four schools within the district. The decision, met with mixed reactions from the community, aims to alleviate budget constraints and optimize district resources.
Schools Affected by the Closures:
- Furneaux Elementary
- Long Middle School
- Central Elementary School
- McCoy Elementary
Following the announcement, some attendees voiced their frustration, underscoring the emotional impact of the closures on students, parents, and educators.
Background & Rationale
The consolidation plan, introduced last month after multiple committee meetings, comes as the district faces a significant budget shortfall. According to district officials, the closures are expected to generate approximately $9 million in savings within the first year.
Key factors influencing the decision include:
- Underutilized Facilities – 24 of the district’s 34 schools are operating at only 75% capacity.
- Aging Infrastructure – Some buildings require costly updates and renovations.
- Excess Classroom Space – The closures will help eliminate more than 2,300 empty seats across the district.
Future Plans for the Closed Campuses
- Furneaux Elementary will be repurposed as a pre-K center.
- McCoy Elementary is slated for sale.
- Central Elementary and Long Middle School will serve as temporary learning spaces for students displaced during renovations at other campuses.
Impact on Families & Students
Many parents have expressed concerns over the transition, particularly regarding the relocation of academic programs and the emotional strain of students being separated from longtime friends and teachers. Additionally, the closures will require redrawing attendance zones—an adjustment that hasn’t been made in over two decades.
While district leaders emphasize that these measures are necessary to ensure long-term financial stability and resource efficiency, the decision marks a significant change for the community, with ongoing discussions about how best to support affected families and students in the transition.