AUSTIN, TX - Austin ISD and the Texas Council for International Studies (TCIS) have mutually agreed to end a partnership for the management of Burnet, Dobie and Webb middle schools. Austin ISD will fully operate those schools as the new school year begins, continuing the district’s intensive focus on student outcomes. 

“This resolution will provide continuity for students and allow the district to build upon the student-focused efforts that began last school year,” said Austin ISD Superintendent Matias Segura. “Continued improvement in student outcomes is a priority for our district and our actions through this school year will continue to reflect that commitment."

Burnet, Dobie and Webb have already seen gains from the first year of the district-led turnaround plan, approved by the Texas Education Agency in 2025. Preliminary data from 2026 testing shows 100% of students tested at Burnet and Dobie, and 85% of students at Webb, passed the Algebra I state assessment — a significant achievement in advanced math. 

The Austin ISD Board of Trustees approved a three-year partnership with TCIS in March to support rapidly increasing student achievement. If the partnership would have been approved by TEA, the campus would also receive a pause in state accountability ratings. However, in late May, TEA declined partnership benefits.

While Austin ISD responded by submitting additional evidence of TCIS’s successful experience and capacity to lead the turnaround work, both TCIS and Austin ISD have ultimately agreed that ending the partnership is the best path forward. The partnership will end July 31.

“By exiting this partnership, we’re ensuring all resources can go to students who are always at the center of our work,” said Margaret Davis, TCIS Chief Executive Officer. “During these months of collaboration and partnership, we have grown to admire the district’s commitment to excellence and to love the Austin ISD community. We believe wholeheartedly that Austin ISD will take this new year and continue growing these students academically and feel privileged to be a small part of that work.”

Austin ISD and TCIS collaboratively designed initial turnaround strategies to protect what was already working at the three schools, allowing for a smooth transition into 2026-27. All investments provided for the Turnaround Plans will continue. This includes content interventionists, instructional coaches and additional funds that school leadership can use as needed to support the campus.