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Socorro ISD Plans Balanced Budget Amid Enrollment Declines and Financial Challenges

KVIA•Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 3:53 PM•El Paso Matters

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AI Summary

The Socorro Independent School District (SISD) is set to approve a balanced budget of $465.5 million this June, marking the second consecutive year of fiscal responsibility. This budget includes a $550,000 surplus aimed at funding the SISD Aquatics Center. Despite this progress, SISD faces challenges, including a projected decline of 800 students next year and a total loss of 3,600 students by 2036. The district is also considering a potential tax rate increase and a voter-approval tax ratification election to bolster revenue, following a previous VATRE proposal rejection. The district is working to rebuild its savings after years of deficits, with current reserves sufficient for 29 days of operation in emergencies, but still below the required 75 days.

Key Details: • Public hearing and budget adoption scheduled for June 17. • Projected property tax rate of $0.91 per $100 valuation for 2026. • SISD expects to lose 800 students next school year, totaling a 3,600 decrease by 2036. • Deadline to call for a VATRE is August 17. • Current savings allow for 29 days of operation in emergencies, below the 75-day requirement.

enrollment budget education taxes sisd

People & Organizations

El PasoSISDSocorro Independent School DistrictJames VasquezDaniel EscobarDavid SolisPaul Cash

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