At the Arlington ISD Board meeting last night, trustees discussed a plan to potentially close Blanton Elementary at the end of this school year and repurpose a portion of the building in the future. No decision was made by trustees during Thursday’s meeting.
This discussion was guided by our District Values and Beliefs, specifically our commitment to providing exceptional learning environments. The proposal is driven by three key factors:
Infrastructure: The 69-year-old facility faces mounting maintenance challenges. The district aims to move students into modern, well-maintained environments that better support 21st-century learning.
Enrollment: Declining enrollment in the Blanton attendance zone necessitates a strategic reallocation of talent and resources to ensure the greatest impact on student outcomes.
Academic Growth: Streamlining the district’s footprint allows for a higher concentration of staff and specialized programs to promote Exceptional Experiences for every student.
“We believe our children deserve safe, well-designed spaces that support strong instruction,” said Arlington ISD Superintendent Dr. Matt Smith. “These discussions are about being thoughtful with our resources while keeping students at the center of every decision. Our goal is to ensure every child learns in a setting that supports growth, encourages engagement, and helps them succeed.”
Arlington ISD has launched a website that includes more information about the condition of the Blanton building, enrollment trends, and where parents and employees can easily ask questions.
Next Steps:
- Timeline: The 2025-2026 school year will continue as normal.
- Family Meetings: In line with the district’s belief that partnerships with families are the foundation of success, district leaders will hold an informational meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 14, at 6:00 p.m., in the Blanton Elementary cafeteria. District leaders will share next steps, including information about potential new school assignments, transportation, and support services. Spanish language interpreters will be on-site and available throughout the meeting.