Letter to Leander ISD Board shared with Four Points News
Dear LISD Board,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my deep frustration and concern regarding the proposed closure of Steiner Ranch Elementary School, a decision that I believe will have serious negative consequences for our children, especially those with special needs, including my own daughter.
As a parent of a child with special needs, I can attest to the significant progress that my child has made in our neighborhood schools. The environment in which has been a critical factor in her growth, offering tailored support that allows her to thrive in ways that might not be possible in other settings. I fear that consolidating our schools and closing of Steiner Ranch Elementary will disrupt this progress, and the impact on both special needs and able-bodied children will be detrimental.
No one seems to be considering the unique needs of our special needs children in the current plan. The support systems they rely on are built within these neighborhood schools, and without it, many children will fall behind. It is not just about education—it is about the well-being and futures of our most vulnerable children.
Our community has always come together to protect what is valuable, and our schools and staff are the backbone of that effort. It is essential that we protect the sanctity of our neighborhood schools, preserve the support structures for all students, and ensure that the changes being made do not affect those who need us the most.
I ask that you take into account the voices of the families who are directly impacted by this decision, especially those of us with children who require special education. We need to preserve the resources, staff, and support systems that are critical to their success.
Please reconsider the decision to close Steiner Ranch Elementary and explore alternative solutions that prioritize the needs of all students, especially those with special needs. Our children deserve better, and as a community, we must come together to protect their future.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Meghan Garcia
Steiner Ranch