Houston ISD to close 12 schools in upcoming 2026-27 school year, district says

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- The Houston Independent School District announced a plan that the district will move forward with the closure of 12 schools at the beginning of the fall 2026 school year.

The district has experienced declining enrollment and increasing maintenance costs to its aging facilities since 2017.

On Thursday, HISD provided a list of the school closures including NQ Henderson Elementary School, Port Houston Elementary School, Fleming Middle School, McReynolds Middle School, Ross Elementary School, Burrus Elementary School, Franklin Elementary School, Alcott Elementary School, Hobby Elementary School, Cage Elementary School, Briscoe Elementary School, and Gulfton Middle College.

The district also provided a list of transfer schools for the closed schools, along with the campus communities they will receive. Those are listed on HISD's website.

Houston Independent School District Superintendent Mike Miles shared the following statement:

"I understand this news is difficult. Schools are more than buildings. They are places filled with history, relationships, and pride. This decision was not made lightly, and our focus remains on ensuring every student has access to a strong, supportive, and opportunity-rich learning environment."