KISD Optimization Plan Details
The KISD Board of Trustees approved optimization recommendations on October 28, 2025, following months of study and stakeholder input. Key actions include closing Peebles Elementary, Eastern Hills Middle School, and Palo Alto Middle School at the end of the 2025–2026 school year. Affected students will transition to nearby campuses like Brookhaven and Clifton Park, with Palo Alto repurposed as a District Alternative Education Placement facility[1].
Additional measures end Pre-K3 programs at Fort Hood campuses while maintaining Pre-K4, and pursue a turnaround partner for Manor Middle School. Future phases involve consolidating Hay Branch and Cedar Valley Elementaries, expanding bilingual programs, and studying high school enhancements for CTE, STEM, and dual enrollment. These steps aim to cut $18.7 million in year one costs and address demographic shifts[1].
Superintendent Dr. King Davis emphasized the emotional yet necessary nature of these decisions, guided by board focuses on academics, facilities, leadership, engagement, and readiness. The district commits to smooth transitions with direct family communication[1].
December 2025 Highlights
On December 15, 2025, KISD celebrated students and an educator honored by VFW District 14 for patriotism programs. Swim teams hosted the Mary Jobe Winter Classic, and gift drives overflowed with community donations for families[2].
Leadership updates include Miguel Timarky as interim principal at Killeen High School. JROTC cadets packed food boxes, and the district earned national recognition for financial transparency from the Government Finance Officers Association[2].
Student-athletes shone with honor roll statuses, football accolades, and theater honors at state/national festivals. Events like holiday performances and partnerships with soldiers reflect KISD's community spirit amid optimizations[2].
Impacts and Future Outlook
The optimization fosters sustainability, positioning KISD to invest in teacher pipelines, special education evaluations, and Accelerating Campus Excellence models starting 2026–2027. It counters federal Impact Aid shortfalls and enrollment drops[1].
Community engagement via town halls and surveys ensured data-driven, value-aligned decisions. Impacts include stronger programs and fiscal health, benefiting students long-term despite short-term adjustments[1].