The South San Antonio Independent School District board of trustees has revealed a plan in a bid to aggressively tackle an estimated $4.4 million projected deficit. They're working against a September deadline set by the Texas Education Agency, as reported by the San Antonio Report. In a rare show of unity, which has been uncommon in recent years, the board put aside their differences in what might be seen as a last-ditch effort to avoid state takeover.

In the details that surfaced, Abel “Chili Dog” Martinez, a board member with a history of contention, emphasized the urgent need to effectively educate and retain students. "Moving forward, I think bygones need to be bygones," Martinez told the San Antonio Report. “[Students] come out here, they’re dropping out. We need to very aggressively get these kids and educate them as best as we can and catch them.” Another board member, Homer Flores Jr., publicly apologized for past behavior, indicating the board's concerted effort to change its image and focus on resolving the district's fiscal and operational struggles.

The pressing financial situation prompted discussions on a range of cost-cutting measures, including the previous decision to close West Campus High School and changes to employee medical insurance. According to the San Antonio Report, Tony Kingman, Chief Financial Officer of the district, listed options including staff layoffs and school closures to combat the deficit, which also swelled due to the expiration of federal COVID relief funds.

More recently, the school board has taken the step to potentially lay off employees. Superintendent Henry Yzaguirre was empowered by the board to make staff cuts if necessary amidst the district's growing $12 million deficit. The KSAT reported Yzaguirre's statement on the impending Reduction in Force (RIF) layoffs. "This is our effort to be efficient. If we cannot place staff during the consolidation of the West Campus closure, then the Reduction in Force layoffs would be the last option." It was also noted that the RIF would not impact elementary campuses.

The consensus around the need for drastic action highlights the board's awareness of the gravity of their predicament. No easy choices lie ahead, with both budgetary constraints and the educational needs of the community weighing heavily on the trustees' shoulders. Superintendent Yzaguirre reiterates the preliminary nature of the options, emphasizing that academic performance must not be sacrificed. "At some point, we need to make more tough decisions," he cautioned, in comments obtained by the San Antonio Report. With the spotlight on South San ISD, only time will unveil the efficacy of these measures in steering the district back to financial stability.