Austin Independent School District is facing a significant budget shortfall, with a projected deficit of $181 million for the 2026-27 fiscal year. This is a substantial increase from the $49 million shortfall in the previous fiscal year. The district’s superintendent, Matias Segura, and Chief Financial Officer, Katrina Montgomery, presented the proposed budget at a June 4 board information session.
Causes of the Shortfall
The budget shortfall is attributed to several factors, including a decrease in property values, declining enrollment, and the delay of a $26 million property sale. Additionally, stagnant state funding has contributed to the shortfall. Payroll currently accounts for more than 88% of the district’s budget.
The proposed plan would eliminate or restructure positions across the district, including 215 teaching positions and 228 vacant roles. About 55 counselor, assistant principal, and librarian positions would also be affected. The district also projects $31 million in savings through staffing reductions over the course of the school year via attrition, reorganization, and enrollment-based leveling.
Community Reaction
The proposed cuts have drawn significant opposition from the community, particularly regarding the elimination of librarian positions. Heather Hughes, a librarian at Langford Elementary, urged the board to reconsider the cuts, citing the district’s previous commitment to not cutting librarians. Parents and students also expressed concerns about the elimination of the district’s water polo program, which costs the district roughly $89,000 annually.
Some community members also called on the board to include Blackshear Elementary in upcoming boundary discussions before any closure decision is made. The 135-year-old East Austin school has not been formally voted on for closure by the board. Marcus Charles, the father of a Blackshear student, emphasized the importance of the school to the community, citing its diversity and representation.
Next Steps
The board will hold an information session on June 11 before voting on the final budget on June 18. Community members can submit written comments through June 18 at 5 p.m. on the district’s website.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
