We, the undersigned parents, guardians, teachers and staff strongly oppose Austin ISD’s consideration of the relocation hundreds of Dobie Middle School Student to Lamar Middle School in what Austin ISD is calling the Dobie Turnaround Plan. As mentioned in a recent meeting, this relocation would begin with the 2025-2026 school year and has no ending date. Some of the reasons for our opposition include:

-Lamar Middle School is already operating at 117% capacity with very limited resources.

-There has been no Dobie Turnaround Plan presented to either community. No details.

-There is no established budget for the Dobie Turnaround Plan or source of funds identified. At the same time, Austin ISD is planning to pass an over $100 million deficit budget.

-Lamar Middle School primary facility was built over 50 years ago and is in desperate need of repairs and updating. The original facilities were built in 1955 for 400 students. Current enrollment is over 1,100 and yet the original facilities; cafeteria, gyms, library, bathrooms and hallways haven’t been altered or adjusted.

-There has been no safety plan presented.

-Austin ISD has said no decision has been made. However, Austin ISD is already presenting budget amounts in the millions of dollars for Board of Trustees approval to implement the Dobie Turnaround Plan without providing either community with answers to questions, detailed information or any kind of plan.

This proposed move would dangerously overcrowd an already strained facility, compromising the safety, well-being, and educational experience of all students.

We urge Austin ISD to explore other options that will better serve both Dobie and Lamar communities.