The Texas Education Agency rejected Austin ISD's plan for failing schools

May 29, 2026 - 08:22

The Texas Education Agency has turned down Austin ISD's proposal to partner with a charter network for three struggling middle schools, a move that leaves the campuses at risk of a state takeover. The district had submitted an application to enter into a charter agreement for Burnet, Dobie, and Webb middle schools, hoping the partnership would buy more time to improve academic performance and avoid direct state intervention.

In a letter sent to Superintendent Matias Segura on Thursday, the TEA formally denied the application. The decision came as a blow to district leaders who had spent months crafting the proposal as a last-ditch effort to retain local control. Under the rejected plan, the schools would have operated under a charter management organization while still remaining part of Austin ISD.

The denial means the three campuses now face an uncertain future. The TEA has the authority to appoint a board of managers or even close the schools if they fail to meet state standards in the coming years. District officials have not yet announced their next steps, but the clock is ticking. Without an approved alternative, the state could move forward with a full takeover, replacing the local school board and administration at those campuses.

Parents and community members have expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the TEA regarding the reasoning behind the denial. Some have called for a public meeting to discuss alternatives, while others worry that the district's options are running out. Austin ISD has not ruled out legal action or a revised application, but for now, the fate of Burnet, Dobie, and Webb middle schools hangs in the balance.