State calls for closing La Marque ISD

Students from Early Childhood Learning Center of La Marque ISD sing the National Anthem before Friday's game between La Marque and Manvel. Students from Early Childhood Learning Center of La Marque ISD sing the National Anthem before Friday's game between La Marque and Manvel. Photo: Thomas B. Shea, For The Chronicle Photo: Thomas B. Shea, For The Chronicle Image 1 of / 3 Caption Close State calls for closing La Marque ISD 1 / 3 Back to Gallery

Texas Education Commissioner Michael Williams has ordered the closure of Galveston County's La Marque ISD in July unless the school district successfully appeals.

Williams notified leaders of the 2,500-student district this week that he intended to take the rare step of revoking its accreditation after years of poor academic and financial performance.

The Texas Education Agency has not announced what would happen to the students, but it's likely a neighboring school district or districts would be asked to take over, said spokeswoman Debbie Ratcliffe.

The state most recently ordered the closure of Harris County's North Forest Independent School District, and Houston ISD annexed it.

The agency also sent notice this week to two smaller districts that it intends to close: Jonesboro ISD in Coryell County (189 students) and Brookesmith ISD in Brown County (177 students).

La Marque ISD Superintendent Terri Watkins could not immediately be reached for comment Friday afternoon. The school board has called a special meeting for 2 p.m. Sunday at La Marque High School.

A year ago the TEA warned the district that it was on probation. At the time, the district's board president, Nakisha Paul, resisted comparisons to the North Forest experience.

"I don't think we're in the same boat as North Forest. I refuse to think we're in the same boat, " Paul said. "We are trying very hard to get it right. The community is still fighting for this district."

Watkins, on the district's website, described the theme for the 2014-15 school year as "Standing Strong."

"Every decision we make is based upon what is in the best interest of our children," Watkins wrote. "Each of us are essential to the success of our students. Winning in the classroom, in athletics, and winning in life is a tradition in La Marque ISD, and we are here to keep the traditions alive. We honor the student success of the past and strive for success in the future. La Marque Cougars always 'Stand Strong!' When others are ready to count us out, we remember who we are and somehow, some way, we succeed."