Six Dallas schools face closure over budget deficits

Well, Dallas ISD heard from parents about the possible plan to close six schools in the district. District leaders say it's just a way to cut some major costs. Shannon Murray here with a look at both sides. Lauren, district officials say the move would save millions of dollars and allow it to prioritize higher population areas. The district pitched a plan to close Joseph J. Rhodes Learning Center, Northwest Harley Early Childhood Center, Budd Elementary, Zaragoza Elementary, Arlington Park Early Childhood Center, and Bowd Story Middle School. Parents from J.J. Rhodes Learning Center are fighting to keep that campus open. A board trustee says the school has operated at a deficit Since it's opened, though, there are 120. students there, and it would take 350 students to even out the costs of operating that center specifically. And closing that campus alone would save the district $1.2 million. But parents argue it's a safety issue, sending their young pre-K 3 and 4 students into a school with older kids. I understand the financial argument. I understand the operating of one school may be cheaper than operating two. I heard that a lot already. But cheaper does not always mean better. Financial efficacy should never come at the expense of our children's educational experiences. We can't make it be fiscally successful. It's not created that way. And that's what this is about. It's about this board. Voting on equity and what's right for the South Dallas community. Dallas ISD leaders say nothing is final. They are still considering state funding as an option. And the group will take a look at the feedback from parents at its next board meeting. J.J. Rhodes' parents, by the way, have started a petition with nearly 600 signatures so far. Lauren and Brandon.