A crucial vote to close schools amid a $17 million deficit in Grand Prairie ISD was delayed Thursday night.

At the start of the school board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Gabriel Trujillo announced to a packed room that the decision on a consolidation plan would be delayed.”

“The reason is I want to make sure that it becomes very clear for our families and our teachers that you have a voice,” said Trujillo.

The board announced last month that it would look at closing three schools: Travis World Language Academy, Morton Elementary and Dickinson Elementary. All are c-rating schools and below capacity.

At the time, Trujillo pointed to the deficit, uncertain state funding and aging school buildings. 

But nearly two-dozen parents took the podium, urging the board to reconsider and asking them to prioritize kids’ stability and well-being over a balance sheet.

“We already know the teachers. We know all her friends and all that, so starting over, it may affect her because she’s already used to everyone there,” said Morton parent Eloy Morales.

“I want Travis to stay open. It’s like a family you grow up with, but not only that, they know your child by name, but also the education. They have really good education there,” said a Travis parent whose daughter is the last of several in her family to attend the school.

The board announced Thursday that it will hold listening sessions at all three campuses next month.

It will be at Dickinson on February 2nd, Morton on February 3rd and Travis on the 5th.

All sessions are scheduled to start at 6 p.m.