EPISD Faces Potential Layoffs Amid $52.8 Million Budget Deficit

The El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) is considering declaring financial exigency due to a significant budget shortfall of $52.8 million this year, with an additional projected deficit of $42 million for the next year. This declaration would allow the district to terminate contracts with employees and vendors without penalties, potentially leading to layoffs among its 7,400 staff members, as payroll constitutes 89% of its expenses. Superintendent Brian Lusk emphasized the urgency for budgetary changes to maintain operations. The EPISD board is expected to vote on this matter soon, with a deadline to submit their declaration to the Texas Education Agency within 20 days if approved.

Key Details: • EPISD is facing a $52.8 million deficit this year and $42 million next year. • The board must vote on declaring financial exigency and submit an application to the TEA within 20 days if passed. • The deadline for adopting a balanced budget for the 2026-27 school year is June 30. • Potential layoffs could affect over 7,400 district employees, with payroll accounting for 89% of expenses.