Judson ISD Board Weighs Complaints Against Trustees Amid School Closure Tensions

Trustees vote to discuss and potentially investigate complaints involving the board president and one trustee.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Tensions continue to rise within Judson ISD as the school board faces new complaints and growing division following heated debates over campus closures. Trustees voted to discuss and potentially investigate complaints involving the board president and one trustee, including whether any actions may have violated the Texas Penal Code. The latest developments come after earlier board discussions surrounding the possible firing of the superintendent and questions about whether the board may have violated the Texas Open Meetings Act.

Why it matters

The internal conflicts and complaints within the Judson ISD school board highlight the divisive nature of the debates over school closures and governance issues. These tensions could have significant impacts on the district's ability to effectively manage its operations and serve the needs of students and families.

The details

After a contentious special meeting, trustees voted to discuss and potentially investigate complaints involving board president Monica Ryan and trustee José Macias. Macias repeatedly raised concerns about how the process was handled for the possible firing of Superintendent Dr. Milton Fields, calling the recommendation 'bogus' and arguing that a grievance hearing should have taken place. Macias was also the only trustee to vote against the decision to close four schools by the end of the academic year. Following the meeting, trustees entered a closed session to consider a complaint filed by Ryan against Macias, which could lead to an investigation. Macias also requested an investigation into alleged retaliation by Ryan.

  • On February 16, 2026, Judson ISD trustees held a special meeting to discuss the complaints and potential investigations.

The players

Judson ISD

A school district in San Antonio, Texas that is facing internal conflicts and complaints among its board of trustees.

Monica Ryan

The board president of Judson ISD who filed a complaint against trustee José Macias.

José Macias

A Judson ISD trustee who repeatedly raised concerns about the process for potentially firing the superintendent and voted against the decision to close four schools.

Dr. Milton Fields

The superintendent of Judson ISD who was the subject of discussions about potentially being fired.

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What they’re saying

“The only way to address the dark is by shining light on it. So I'm going to expose everything I possibly can to make sure the community knows how chaotic and dysfunctional and toxic things are right now in this district.”

— José Macias, Judson ISD Trustee (kens5.com)

What’s next

The Judson ISD board will decide whether to move forward with investigations into the complaints against the board president and trustee.

The takeaway

The internal conflicts and complaints within the Judson ISD school board highlight the divisive nature of the debates over school closures and governance issues, which could have significant impacts on the district's ability to effectively serve students and families.