The Killeen Independent School District (KISD) Board of Trustees unanimously approved the sale of the former Brookhaven Elementary School property during a meeting on Thursday, March 12, 2026. The decision marks the end of an era for the building, which has been vacant since the opening of the new Brookhaven Elementary campus in August 2023. The sale is expected to generate revenue for the district, which officials say will be reinvested into educational programs and facilities.
The property, located at 2001 Stan Schlueter Loop in Killeen, Texas, encompasses approximately 10 acres. According to KISD officials, the district received multiple bids for the land, ultimately selecting an offer that aligned with the district’s long-term goals and provided the best financial return. The approved sale price was not immediately disclosed, but the board indicated it met or exceeded appraised values.
“This was a difficult decision, as Brookhaven Elementary holds many fond memories for our community,” said Board President Jessie Leija in a statement following the vote. “However, we have a responsibility to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars and to ensure that our resources are used to provide the best possible education for our students. The proceeds from this sale will allow us to do just that.”
The former Brookhaven Elementary School was originally built in 1978. Over the years, it served as a cornerstone of the Killeen community, educating generations of students. The decision to build a new, state-of-the-art facility was driven by increasing enrollment and the necessitate for updated learning spaces. The new Brookhaven Elementary, located at 5001 E. Central Ave, opened its doors to students in the fall of 2023.
Sale Proceeds and Future Investments
KISD officials have outlined several potential areas for reinvestment of the funds generated from the property sale. These include upgrades to existing school facilities, the purchase of new technology for classrooms and the expansion of career and technical education programs. The district is too exploring options for enhancing student support services and providing additional professional development opportunities for teachers.
“We are committed to transparency and accountability in how we utilize these funds,” stated Superintendent John Craft. “We will be working closely with our community to identify the most pressing needs and to ensure that the investment benefits all of our students.” The district plans to present a detailed plan for the allocation of funds at a future board meeting.
Community Reaction and Next Steps
The announcement of the sale has prompted mixed reactions from the Killeen community. While many recognize the financial benefits for the district, some residents expressed sadness at the loss of a beloved landmark. The Killeen Daily Herald reported on community concerns regarding potential commercial development of the property, with some residents advocating for a park or community center instead.
The KISD Board of Trustees is now working with legal counsel to finalize the sale agreement and complete the transfer of ownership. The closing date is anticipated to be within the next 60-90 days. Once the sale is finalized, the district will begin the process of decommissioning the former Brookhaven Elementary building, which includes removing all remaining equipment and materials.
Looking ahead, the Killeen Independent School District remains focused on providing a high-quality education for all students. The revenue generated from the sale of the former Brookhaven Elementary School will play a crucial role in supporting these efforts and ensuring that KISD continues to be a leader in educational innovation.
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