Austin ISD proposes closure of Paredes Middle School to accelerate student achievement

Austin ISD Superintendent Matias Segura announced today a proposal for the immediate closure of Paredes Middle School prior to the start of the 2026-27 school year on Aug. 18.

The decision follows targeted district investments over the past year to boost academic achievement at Paredes. Despite these efforts, district leaders determined that student growth has not progressed rapidly enough to serve students effectively during this critical educational phase.

Austin ISD is seeing momentum districtwide in academic outcomes that represent increased focus and support by educators and staff. While the proposed closure is a difficult decision, district leaders maintain a commitment to high expectations and rigor for all our students. This student-centered approach to our work led Austin ISD leaders to make this proposal based on the academic trends at Paredes.

Under the proposal, current Paredes students would transition to Bailey Middle School or Mendez Middle School, determined by their home addresses.

"Middle school is a critical bridge to high school, college, and future careers," Superintendent Segura said. "We cannot afford to wait when we have the ability to give these students access to stronger academic environments right now,"

Key Student Benefits & Support Plan

By moving students to Bailey and Mendez, the district intends to connect them with expanded academic programs and robust learning environments equipped to accelerate growth.

• High-quality instruction tailored to prepare students for high school and future opportunities.
• Broader access to extracurricular offerings, including specialized athletics, fine arts, and electives.
• On-campus counseling, campus tours, and welcome events to help students integrate into their new environments.

District teams are currently finalizing logistics around course offerings, after-school activities, community partnerships, transportation routes and enrollment transfer options.

Austin ISD is committed to supporting all affected staff during this transition. Every current Paredes employee will be placed in a position within the district and there will be no job losses as a result of this consolidation.

The Austin ISD Board of Trustees will review the proposal and seek community input during two upcoming special sessions:

• Special Board Information Session: Tuesday, July 28 at 6 p.m.
• Special Board Voting Meeting: Thursday, July 30 at 6 p.m.

Both sessions will be livestreamed on the Austin ISD Facebook and YouTube channels for those unable to attend in person.