Amarillo ISD releases watchlist for potential school closures and consolidations

The Amarillo Independent School District (AISD) is weighing the potential closure or consolidation of several schools as it confronts a steady decline in enrollment. The issue was addressed during a Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday, where district leaders unveiled a preliminary list of campuses under consideration.

Schools Identified for Potential Consolidation

The schools flagged for possible closure all report enrollment numbers below 300 students. These include:

Elementary Schools

Park Hills Elementary – 174 students

Sunrise Elementary – 196 students

Pleasant Valley Elementary – 197 students

Landergin Elementary – 260 students

Lamar Elementary – 279 students

Hamlet Elementary – 281 students

Sixth Grade Campuses

Allen 6th Grade Campus – 210 students

Travis 6th Grade Campus – 275 students

District leaders emphasized that no decisions have been finalized, with a thorough review process planned in the coming months.

Understanding the Decline

Since 2017, AISD’s enrollment has dropped by 4,290 students. Superintendent Doug Loomis and Board President Doyle Corder attribute the trend to several factors, including declining birth rates, demographic shifts to outlying areas like Bushland, and an aging population in Potter County.

“This isn’t just an Amarillo issue — it’s happening across Texas,” Corder said, noting similar enrollment challenges statewide.

Despite these setbacks, AISD has avoided budgetary crises, maintaining financial stability through strategic planning. “We’re not in a crisis, but we need to make decisions now to ensure long-term stability,” Corder added.

Reassuring the Workforce

Corder addressed concerns over potential job losses, stating that consolidations would not lead to layoffs. The district has successfully managed workforce reductions through attrition, such as retirements and internal transfers. “Our staff has done an incredible job of managing resources, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon,” he said.

Community Concerns and Emotional Impact

For many, the closure of a neighborhood school represents more than a logistical change—it’s a loss of community identity. Parents and residents voiced concerns about losing local schools that have served as community pillars for decades.

“It breaks my heart to think about a community school closing down,” Corder acknowledged. However, he stressed the importance of prioritizing the district’s future over sentimentality.

AISD has committed to a transparent process that considers various factors, including geography, community needs, and accountability measures.

Next Steps and Community Involvement

The board will reconvene on December 16 to discuss possible school pairings and provide detailed justifications for any recommendations. Superintendent Loomis assured stakeholders of AISD’s dedication to keeping the community informed and involved.

“If we see schools under 300 students next year, we’ll revisit this process,” Corder said, underscoring the fluid nature of the situation.

Aiming for Educational Excellence

Beyond finances, AISD leaders argue that consolidations can improve educational opportunities. Smaller schools often face challenges in providing robust academic programs and fostering teacher collaboration. “This is about creating an environment where students can thrive,” Corder explained.

Moving Forward Together

As the district navigates these challenges, leaders aim to honor community values while securing AISD’s future. “The school is more than a building — it’s the people inside that make it special,” Corder said.

AISD encourages parents, staff, and residents to participate in upcoming meetings and share their perspectives. “We’re listening, and we want to make the best decision for everyone,” Corder concluded.