CFISD board approves 70 campuses for student transfers in 2025-2026 school year

In a pivotal meeting held on March 3, 2025, the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District (CFISD) Board of Trustees gathered to discuss the future of student transfers for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as board members reviewed recommendations for open and closed campus designations, a decision that could significantly impact families across the district.

Dr. Killian, the district's president, and his team presented detailed enrollment projections, highlighting the meticulous work of the Boundary Projection and Planning team. Their analysis, which included historical data and current enrollment figures, aimed to provide families with as many options as possible while considering the constraints of school capacities. The board was informed that 70 campuses would be designated as open for student transfers, marking the highest number of available campuses in the district's history.

The campuses were categorized into three tiers based on their projected enrollment capacities. Tier 1 campuses, which are open to all CFISD residents and employees, are expected to operate below 95% of their permanent capacity. Tier 2 campuses will be closed to new transfers but available for CFISD employees, while Tier 3 campuses will only accept transfers from employees assigned to those specific schools. This tiered system aims to balance enrollment and ensure that schools do not exceed their capacities.

As the board discussed these recommendations, concerns were raised about potential legislative changes that could affect transfer policies. Board members noted the existence of bills that might allow for increased transfers from outside the district, which could complicate the already delicate balance of enrollment numbers. The implications of such legislation could mean that local families might face increased competition for spots in their preferred schools.

In response to questions from board members, Dr. Killian assured them that there are currently no plans to modify attendance zones for the upcoming school year. He emphasized the importance of using fixed metrics for enrollment projections rather than fluctuating daily attendance figures, which can vary significantly throughout the school year.

As the meeting concluded, the board expressed gratitude for the thorough presentation and the opportunity to discuss the implications of the proposed transfer policies. With the application window set to open on April 1, 2025, and a deadline for submissions on June 30, the district is poised to embark on a new chapter in its approach to student transfers, one that promises to enhance options for families while navigating the complexities of school capacity and legislative changes.