The decision to close Matias De Llano Elementary and other valuable public schools in Laredo, Texas is a devastating blow to our community and our families. 

Closing these schools doesn’t just impact teachers and staff: it affects the entire community. Our children deserve better than having their education disrupted and their schools torn away from them. Did you know, as per the American Psychological Association, that school changes can negatively affect a student's mental and emotional health, academic performance, and even their social development? These statistics highlight the profound and long-term impacts that school closures have on students.

Moreover, public schools are cornerstones of our neighborhoods, offering stability and serving as centers for community events and resources. Removing them undermines not only education but also the social fabric that binds our communities. The closure of these schools will lead to overcrowding in the remaining ones, overburdened teachers, and insufficient resources for quality education, as evidenced by studies published by the National Education Association.

There are real solutions to the problems being faced by our school district that do not involve closing schools. Increased funding, better management practices, and community involvement in decision-making can alleviate financial pressures without shutting down valued institutions. Our local officials need to explore these options and not take the shortest, easiest path that disrupts our children’s education and harms our community.

I implore the Laredo Independent School District and local government leaders to reconsider the impact these closures will have on our community. Let’s work together to find sustainable solutions that put our children's education and future first. By signing this petition, you are standing up for all of our children, our educators, and our community's future. Please lend your voice to this important cause.