In a significant shift for the El Paso Independent School District (EPISD), two board members, Daniel Call and Valerie Ganelon Beals, have announced their resignations. This comes on the heels of the board’s decision to declare financial exigency, necessitating substantial budget cuts.

Resignations and Reasons

Both Call and Beals represent areas in West El Paso. Beals, who has been serving since 2023, cited personal reasons for her departure, specifically the need to support her mother-in-law, who is battling stage 4 colon cancer. ‘At the end of the day, I have to take care of my family first,’ Beals stated, emphasizing her continued commitment to the community and students through prayer and support.

Daniel Call, the longest-serving current member of the board, having been elected in 2019, has not yet detailed his reasons but plans to release a statement next week. Call represents District 7, which includes the Coronado High School feeder pattern, while Beals represents District 6, covering the Franklin High School feeder pattern.

Next Steps for the Board

With these resignations, the remaining five board members face the decision of either calling a special election or appointing interim trustees to serve until the next scheduled election in 2027. Board President Leah Hanany expressed gratitude for the service of both Call and Beals, acknowledging their contributions to the district.

This development is part of an ongoing story, as the district navigates financial challenges and leadership changes. The community will be watching closely to see how the board addresses these vacancies and the broader fiscal issues facing the district.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.