The Gadsden Independent School District board approved a proposal on Jan. 8 to consolidate Loma Linda Elementary into Anthony Elementary.
Miss Hernandez presented the recommendation, saying Loma Linda currently enrolls 468 kindergarten–fifth-grade students and the campus capacity is 500; Anthony Elementary has extra capacity and is located on Anthony’s Main Avenue. The presentation noted Anthony’s capacity advantage (approximately 50 additional spots) and cited parking and busing constraints at Loma Linda as part of the rationale. The board was told that next year Anthony Elementary will no longer host sixth graders because those students will move to the new middle school building.
Board members asked about teacher certifications, classroom assignments and supports during the transition. Staff said they have begun meeting with impacted sixth-grade teachers and will work on endorsements and staffing proactively so teachers can be ready to teach at the appropriate grade levels.
The board moved, voted and carried the consolidation motion. District leadership said they will return at the next board meeting with detailed implementation plans for the Loma Linda campus, including suggested uses for the Loma Linda facility and steps for staffing, transportation and community engagement.
No final implementation details or exact timeline were decided at this meeting; the board requested a follow-up presentation with specific plans.