Coppell ISD School Board Votes to Close Pinkerton Elementary Amid Budget Cuts

The Coppell Independent School District (CISD) school board voted on Monday night to permanently close Pinkerton Elementary School. This decision was motivated by budgetary concerns and is anticipated to save the district approximately $2.1 million. The baccalaureate program is also consolidated as part of the closure.

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The trustees continued with their plan despite a morning rally outside the school and a crowded board meeting attended by concerned parents. Multiple board members acknowledged that the decision was difficult, but they underscored the necessity of acting promptly. They said postponing the decision for an additional year was not an option.

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The board held seminars and town halls in September to investigate potential solutions to the increasing budget deficit and declining enrollment. Ultimately, they resolved to discontinue Pinkerton and postpone any decisions concerning the dual-language program.

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CISD officials assured staff that the closure would not result in any employment losses for teachers or employees. Nevertheless, many parents expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of prioritization of public education funding.

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"Austin is plagued by a significant issue," stated parent advocate Waters. "The funding for public schools must be released by Governor Abbott." "Our public schools are in danger of closure because they are preventing the allocation of taxpayer funds."

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Bob Templeton of Zonda Education has been monitoring educational demographics, emphasizing the persistent obstacles that Texas schools face. As parents and students continue to protest, they are urging legislators to increase funding and find solutions that support public education in the state. 

The decision to close Pinkerton is indicative of the more extensive challenges that schools in Texas are currently encountering due to financial constraints.

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