Waco ISD outlines plans for facility changes and community engagement strategies

Waco Independent School District (Waco ISD) is taking significant steps to address declining enrollment and optimize school facilities, as discussed in the recent school board meeting on March 27, 2025. The board reviewed recommendations stemming from a comprehensive community engagement process aimed at reshaping school attendance boundaries and enhancing educational equity.

The meeting highlighted the district's ongoing efforts to manage its facilities effectively, following a $355 million bond program initiated in 2021 that included renovations and closures of several campuses. With demographic projections indicating a decrease in student enrollment, Waco ISD is focusing on how to best utilize its existing buildings while ensuring that students remain connected throughout their educational journey from elementary through high school.

Key considerations discussed included optimizing space to alleviate overcrowding, maintaining natural neighborhood boundaries, and ensuring that feeder patterns allow students to progress together through the school system. The district engaged over 1,000 community members through a thought exchange platform, gathering feedback that aligned closely with the board's priorities. This feedback emphasized the importance of keeping student needs at the forefront of decision-making.

In addition to the thought exchange, Waco ISD held three public hearings across different campuses, allowing community members to voice their opinions and concerns directly. The district's commitment to transparency and inclusivity was evident, as they sought to ensure that all voices were heard, even in the face of challenging weather conditions during some meetings.

The board is now poised to advance recommendations for new attendance boundaries, with a focus on the upcoming changes involving Alta Vista. As the district moves forward, the emphasis remains on creating a supportive and equitable educational environment for all students, ensuring that community feedback continues to shape the future of Waco ISD.