BEAUMONT, Texas — Dozens of teachers, parents and staff make up the the recently expanded rezoning committee for Beaumont Independent School District.
Tonight, they gave the BISD school board a first look at the attendance rezoning set to begin for the 2025-2026 school years.
"This is our second engagement with the board. We looked at maps tonight and the board will give us feedback," said Dr. Anita Frank, chair of the rezoning committee, and Associate Superintendent for BISD Elementary Schools.
Dr. Frank said that the process will take some time.
"We are working with population and survey analysts (PASA), they will take that feedback and redraw maps. Just making sure that our kids get to school on time, and are not on buses for an extended period of time," said Dr. Frank.
Pictured below is a first look at the proposed rezoning maps of the elementary, middle, and high schools:
No schools will be closed as a result of the rezoning, but attendance zones will shift.
The committee says that it took things like proximity, building use, and capacity into account.
"We know that we aren't going to make everyone happy," said Dr. Frank.
Dr. Frank says that the next phase of the project will come this this summer, with parents and the larger community being able to give their thoughts.
True to Dr. Franks word, some citizens are indeed not happy about the proposed changes.
"To be frankly honest with you they have no plan. They've had months, weeks, years to look at this map situation," said David Pete.
Pete has three grandchildren at Regina-Howell, and he doesn't think the district can get everything ready by the fall 2025 deadline.
"All they had to do was get a budget, pay the teachers, and start listening to the parents and the community," said Pete.
However, administrators like Dr. Frank are asking for the community's input and their patience.
"For the months of June, July, and August we will meet with the community and get their feedback, and if need be, redraw maps," said Dr. Frank.