(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – June 5, 2026) — The El Paso Independent School District Board of Trustees approved a series of actions Thursday evening as part of the district’s Financial Stability Plan, including a declaration of financial exigency and the implementation of a Reduction in Force (RIF), to address ongoing budget challenges and strengthen the district’s long-term financial outlook.
The Board’s action follows a comprehensive review of district finances, operations, staffing, and enrollment trends, as well as months of cost-reduction efforts led by Superintendent Dr. Brian Lusk and district administrators to improve efficiency and reduce expenditures before considering measures that would affect employees. Importantly, the approved actions will not increase student-teacher ratios.
Administration has worked to identify several possible options to reduce costs and improve efficiency before considering actions that would affect employees. Through vacancy reductions, early notification incentives for retirement and separation, departmental restructuring, operational efficiencies, and central office reductions, the district has taken significant steps to limit the number of positions impacted while protecting classrooms and student services.
As a result of those actions, the district reduced its projected 2025-26 budget shortfall from approximately $52 million to $47 million before bringing staffing recommendations to the Board for consideration.
With the measures approved during Thursday’s Special Board Meeting, district leaders project the adopted budget for the 2026-27 school year will include a deficit of approximately $4 million. Prior projections indicated the district could face a budget shortfall of approximately $37 million next year without additional corrective action, making Thursday’s action a significant step toward restoring long-term financial stability.
"These decisions affect people we care deeply about, and that is what makes them so difficult," Superintendent Dr. Brian Lusk said. "Throughout this process, we have worked to reduce spending and identify efficiencies before considering actions that impact employees. While these decisions are painful, our responsibility is to ensure El Paso ISD remains financially stable and able to provide students with the opportunities, support, and education they deserve for years to come."
Enrollment trends played a significant role in staffing recommendations. As student enrollment has declined over time, staffing levels in certain areas no longer align with the number of students being served. The approved adjustments are intended to better align resources with student needs while preserving classroom instruction and student support services. District leaders emphasized that these changes will not increase student-teacher ratios.
Prior to recommending a Reduction in Force, the district conducted a comprehensive review of expenditures. Those efforts included:
Reductions and adjustments to employee stipends
Reviews of contracted services and software subscriptions
Department budget reductions and operational efficiencies
Adjustments to staffing levels based on enrollment and program needs
Revenue enhancement initiatives, including attendance improvement efforts and PEIMS coding reviews
The Board also approved employment areas that will be affected by the Reduction in Force process. Employees impacted by the action will be notified in accordance with district policy and state law and will receive information regarding available positions, timelines, and hearing rights.
"We know that behind every position is a person, a family, and years of service to our students," Board President Leah Hanany said. "Our responsibility was to confront the financial realities facing the district while protecting students, preserving classroom learning, and ensuring El Paso ISD remains strong for the future. We are deeply grateful to every employee whose work has helped shape this district, and we recognize the personal impact these decisions carry."
Community members can visit the El Paso ISD Financial Stability Plan webpage for updates, timelines, frequently asked questions, and additional information regarding the district’s financial planning efforts.