On June 25, 1958, the Bexar County School Board combined the three common school districts of Converse, Kirby, and Selma to form Rural High School District No. 8. The newly constituted school board named this new district Judson Rural School District No. 8 in honor of Moses Campbell Judson, a strong advocate for the purification of San Antonio’s water system, sound educational institutions and family values.

Voters in the communities of Kirby, Converse, Selma, Live Oak and Universal City helped to further shape the future of Judson Rural School District No. 8 in an election on December 10, 1966. As a result of this election, the Judson Independent School District became the newest independent school system in Bexar County.

Prior to the election, Judson served several rural communities on the outskirts of San Antonio with two elementary schools and two secondary schools. It has since evolved from a small system with 432 students to a vibrant, diverse, and modern educational organization with more than 24,000 students.

The rate of growth has resulted in several bond elections approved by district voters. A bond election passed in October 2001 resulted in two elementary schools, a middle school, and the district’s second high school. Bonds approved in November 2006 paid for three elementary schools, a rebuilt high school, a partnership high school with Alamo Community College District, technology upgrades, and renovations to existing facilities. Bonds approved in 2013 and 2016 paid for new elementary schools, a new high school, and several district-wide infrastructure upgrades.

Elementary campuses are based on the community school concept, in which most are located in the neighborhoods they serve. The district’s middle schools continue to provide a foundation for student success at the high school level. The educational experience at the high school level is bolstered by strong academics, extracurricular opportunities, and strong traditions for students.

The JISD encompasses 55.87 square miles and currently serves the incorporated cities of Converse, Kirby, and Selma as well as portions of Live Oak, Universal City, San Antonio, and Schertz. The Judson Independent School District is the fourth largest school district in Bexar County. The district is fully accredited by the Texas Education Agency.

Historical Footage

Judson High School marching band from the early years of the district.