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EPISD Cuts Budget Deficit and Appoints New Trustees Amid Financial Crisis

El Paso Matters•Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at 3:04 AM•Claudia Lorena Silva

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AI Summary

The El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) has adopted a $534.8 million budget for the 2026-27 school year, reducing its deficit to $4.3 million, significantly lower than the previously projected $37.3 million. This budget comes after the district declared financial exigency and laid off 55 employees to save $40 million. The board also voted to fill trustee vacancies by appointment, sparking debate among parents and educators regarding community involvement in the selection process. Health insurance premiums will rise for some employees, while the district aims to stabilize its finances and avoid deeper cuts. A budget dashboard will be available on the district's website for public access.

Key Details: • Budget deficit reduced to $4.3 million for the 2026-27 school year. • Health insurance premiums will increase by $200 to $600 per month starting July 2027. • Trustee seats for Districts 6 and 7 will be filled by appointment, avoiding a $166,000 special election. • Public budget dashboard to be launched for transparency on district finances.

budget education episd trustees financial-management

People & Organizations

El PasoBrian LuskEl Paso Independent School DistrictLeah HananyKara CervantesRoger Scott BrownEduardo RamosDistrict 6District 7Teacher Retirement System of Texas

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