Resolution of Schieffer Willowbrook Neighborhood Association

The following resolution was unanimously adopted by the Schieffer Willowbrook Neighborhood Association of Sept 26, 2019:


Resolution in support of Maplewood elementary school, and East Austin Schools September 26, 2019.

Whereas Maplewood Elementary School is a community asset that is a foundation of our neighborhood; and

Whereas Maplewood Elementary School has a diverse student population; and

Whereas one of the goals of the Austin ISD school change report is to encourage "...a future where diverse student populations... enrich the overall learning environment for all students"; and

Whereas Austin ISD did not conduct community engagement with most of the school communities that are recommended for closure before the recommendations were released, including Maplewood Elementary; and

Whereas 74% of the students affected by the Austin ISD school closure recommendations are economically disadvantaged and 8 of the 12 schools recommended for closure serve East Austin students; and

Whereas Austin ISD has not provided the public with clear and detailed information about how the schools selected for closure were selected; the total cost savings by campus; future boundary changes that will affect attendance zones; over enrollment that will result from school consolidation; and future use of school properties; now therefore,  be it

Resolved that the Austin ISD Board of Trustees delay the decision about school closure and consolidation until additional information is available; the community has ample opportunity for authentic engagement; other school scenarios are considered; and the diversity and economic disadvantage of student populations at schools recommended for closure are considered in the school change decision making process.