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HISD Faces $25M Deficit Despite Cuts
13 Jun
Summary
- Houston ISD faces a $25 million budget shortfall.
- Enrollment loss projected at 4,000 students.
- Nonprofit partnerships may not resolve funding issues.
Houston ISD is currently experiencing substantial financial difficulties. The district faces an estimated budget shortfall of $25 million. This deficit persists even after implementing school closures and staff reductions. Projections indicate a significant loss of $50 million in funding due to an anticipated drop of 4,000 students.
The district's board is scheduled to vote on its budget by the end of June. Earlier in March, a program called Level 5 Autonomy was approved, allowing non-profit organizations to manage four high-performing HISD schools. These partnerships are intended to provide funds for specialized teachers, equipment, and scholarships.
However, concerns have been raised about the program's actual financial benefit. While HISD stated the partnerships could bring in $1.2 million in state funding, recent projections suggest the district might actually lose $3.8 million through this initiative. District officials have not provided explanations for this discrepancy, despite inquiries.
Even with the closure of 12 schools and 300 positions eliminated from its central office, HISD still struggles to balance its budget.
