During its December regular board meeting on Tuesday evening and after several months of comprehensive District Optimization Plan review and extensive community engagement, the Spring ISD Board of Trustees approved the closures of Link Elementary School and Dueitt Middle School beginning with the 2026–27 school year.
Board President Justine Durant emphasized that the vote followed extensive study and thoughtful deliberation.
“Closing Link and Dueitt is truly a heartbreaking decision,” said Durant. “With campuses operating at nearly 60% capacity and reductions in federal funding, we are facing realities that require hard choices. We will not be fiscally responsible if we do not address these challenges now, even when the decisions are difficult.”
The decision comes as part of the district’s comprehensive District Optimization Plan, developed in response to a significant budget deficit of more than $13 million, declining enrollment, and school buildings operating at approximately 60% capacity. The plan aims to strengthen academic programs, improve facility efficiency, and responsibly manage district resources.
“We know this decision was incredibly difficult,” said Spring ISD board trustee Winford Adams, Jr. “But ultimately, our responsibility is to do what is best for all 32,500 Spring ISD students. Every step of this process has been guided by a commitment to protect the academic experience, opportunities, and long-term success of every child we serve.”
As part of the approved plan, Link Elementary students will be rezoned to either Lewis Elementary or Beneke Elementary. The decision also approved the closure of Dueitt Middle School and the plan to rezone students to Bailey and a redesigned Bammel MS; a portion of the current Bammel and Bailey zones will be rezoned to Wells and Twin Creeks.
“This was an extremely difficult decision as part of our District Optimization plan,” said Spring ISD Superintendent Kregg Cuellar. “We understand how deeply this affects our students, families, and staff, and we do not take it lightly. As we move through this transition, our priority is to care for and support one another — especially our students — while maintaining a positive, compassionate culture and staying accountable to our families every step of the way.”
The decision to close the schools reflects the district’s commitment to ensuring all students have access to high-quality facilities, and strong academic programs, while also addressing critical financial and operational needs.