To the Harlingen CISD Board of Trustees,
We, the undersigned parents, guardians, staff, alumni, and community members, respectfully oppose the proposed closure of Jefferson Elementary due to enrollment decline and district consolidation plans. While we understand the district faces enrollment challenges, closing Jefferson Elementary is not the only solution nor is it the best one for our students or our community.
Jefferson Elementary remains a vital neighborhood school that provides:

- A safe and familiar learning environment

-Strong teacher-to-student relationships

-Accessibility for families who rely on proximity

-Community stability in an area that depends on its local school

The proposed closure has come about due to budget constraints and declining enrollment numbers across the district. However, closing this historic institution is not the solution. Instead, we should focus on innovative approaches to optimize our resources and revitalize enrollment. Solutions such as redistricting, introducing new educational programs, or even renting out unused spaces for community events could provide the necessary boost to keep Jefferson Elementary open.

Research consistently shows that smaller, community-focused schools produce better student outcomes and foster strong community ties. By uprooting students and forcing them to attend larger, more distant schools, we risk dismantling the supportive environment that has been cultivated over the years. Additionally, the loss of Jefferson Elementary would have a severe impact on local property values and community spirit.

We urge the school board to reconsider this decision and explore alternative methods to address budgetary concerns while preserving this vital community institution. The future of our children and our community depends on it. We respectfully request full transparency regarding the data used to justify this closure, including projected savings, enrollment forecasts, and the impact on receiving campuses.

Decisions about schools should prioritize students first — not just numbers.

Jefferson Elementary is more than enrollment statistics. It is a community anchor, a place where children feel safe, supported, and known by name.

We ask the board to pause this decision and work with families to find a solution that keeps Jefferson Elementary open.

Our children deserve stability. Our community deserves to be heard.

Sign this petition to demand that Jefferson Elementary remains open and continues to serve our community!