Monday more than 100 business, community and faith leaders were invited to the Dell Children's Medical Center to talk about strategies to fight the closure of Texas schools Monday.

In accordance with state law, more than 20 statewide could close this year because of poor performance. The group of parents and community members said they would rather see the schools improved rather than shut down.

Meanwhile, lawmakers are scheduled to debate whether to change the law.

"Economically disadvantaged children have a tougher time; they don't come to school as prepared to learn. and don't have as many supports while they're in school," Scott McCown, with the Center for Public Policy Priorities, said. "And so what we need to do is broaden out thinking and help kids succeed."

With current requirements, nine out of 11 high schools in the Austin Independent School District could fall into the low-performing category, and possibly shut down.

Supporters of the bill hope the new law will change that for the better.