EPISD Board Decision Sparks Division
The El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) Board of Trustees narrowly approved a controversial plan to close eight elementary schools in response to looming budget deficits. During a tense meeting on Tuesday night, the board voted 4–3 in favor of the closures, with President Israel Irrobali casting the tie-breaking vote. Trustees Daniel E. Call, Isabel Hernandez, Valerie Ganelon Beals (Vice President), and Irrobali supported the decision, while Alex Cuellar, Dr. Jack Loveridge, and Leah Hanany opposed it.
Despite significant public opposition, Superintendent Diana Sayavedra emphasized that the closures were essential for the district’s financial stability and quality of education. “This is about providing sustainable, high-quality education by addressing the deficit, preserving essential programs, and creating enriched, equitable learning environments for all students,” Sayavedra explained. Board President Irrobali echoed these sentiments, asserting that the plan aims to empower students and staff with better resources.
Budget Pressures and Community Feedback
The decision comes after EPISD revealed dire financial projections, citing a $32.2 million budget deficit for the fiscal year 2025–26. Originally, the district had proposed closing 10 elementary schools as part of its Destination District Redesign (DDR) initiative. However, following strong community feedback, the list was revised, sparing Hillside and Park elementary schools from closure.
Under the updated plan, closures will occur in two phases. Phase I (2025–2026) includes Carlos Rivera, Lamar, Newman, Putnam, Rusk, and Zavala elementary schools. Phase II (2026–2027) will see the closure of Stanton and Travis elementary schools. District officials warned that without these measures, EPISD would face severe consequences, including workforce reductions, program cuts, larger class sizes, and long-term financial instability.
A Path Forward Amid Challenges
EPISD outlined the benefits of the school closures, emphasizing how reallocating resources would enhance classroom instruction, preserve academic programs, and stabilize the district’s finances. By implementing the closures, the district projects a 65.8% reduction in its budget deficit, saving $15.5 million in FY2026 and $5.7 million in FY2027.
While the closures aim to mitigate the financial crisis, concerns linger among trustees and community members about the potential impact on students, staff, and families. Critics argue that the closures could disrupt educational environments and strain resources in remaining schools. Still, district leaders maintain that decisive action is necessary to avoid more drastic cost-cutting measures in the future.
As EPISD moves forward with its plan, the district remains committed to working with affected communities and ensuring a smooth transition for students and staff. The closures mark a significant step in the district’s efforts to address financial challenges while striving to maintain high-quality education for all.
