Austin Independent School District leaders say they may need to make “deeper cuts” as they face a projected $180 million budget deficit for the next school year, raising the possibility of staffing reductions, program cuts, and changes that could directly affect campuses.
Superintendent Matias Segura said the district has tried to shield classrooms from the impact so far, but warned that may no longer be possible. Proposed cost-cutting measures include eliminating funding for vacant department positions (saving an estimated $23 million), adjusting staffing at elementary and secondary schools (potentially saving over $20 million combined), and reducing employee stipends, including those for special education teachers.
District officials say the growing deficit is driven by declining student enrollment and shifts in property values, both of which affect funding. Segura also pointed to broader factors like changes in federal immigration policy, noting that fewer new families are enrolling while some existing families are leaving the district.
Although Texas lawmakers approved additional education funding this year, Segura said it falls short of what districts like AISD need and that some funds are not easily accessible. The district has already taken steps such as restructuring its central office, implementing a hiring freeze, and approving the closure of 10 schools—moves expected to generate savings, though much of that money is being redirected to state-mandated school improvement efforts.
AISD plans to gather public input through virtual and in-person meetings later this month, with a final budget vote scheduled for June.
