Important announcement about Port O'Connor Elementary and Seadrift School 7th & 8th grades

After months of careful review and thoughtful discussion, the Calhoun County ISD Board of Trustees voted to close Port O'Connor Elementary and consolidate Seadrift School's seventh and eighth grades into Travis Middle School.

We know Port O'Connor Elementary and Seadrift's middle school have been an important part of our community for generations. We also understand the sadness, disappointment, and uncertainty many students, families, staff, and community members are feeling because we share those feelings as well.

Unfortunately, this decision comes only after a careful and comprehensive evaluation of the district's financial outlook. Facing a nearly $4 million budget deficit, driven by declining enrollment, insufficient state funding, and rising operational costs, we were compelled to make an extraordinarily difficult choice. While this decision is heartbreaking, taking action now allows us to preserve strong educational opportunities for all students, protect the district's long-term financial stability, and avoid even greater challenges in the future.

This decision is in no way a reflection of the dedication, excellence, or contributions of our students, staff, or families, nor does it diminish the proud legacy these schools have built over the years. These campuses have shaped the lives of generations of students and have served as cornerstones of their communities. We are deeply grateful for the lasting impact they have made and for the commitment of everyone who has helped make them such special places to learn and grow.

As we move forward, our priority is to support every student, family, and staff member affected by this transition with care, compassion, and respect. We are committed to communicating openly and transparently throughout this process, listening to the concerns of our community, and providing the resources and support needed to ensure a smooth transition.