AUSTIN, Texas — As summer break gets underway, the Austin Independent School District continues to face challenges. On one end, the Texas Education Agency could take over the district due to repeated school failures. On the other, it’s dealing with a $181 million deficit. This has resulted in Austin ISD proposing budget cuts for next school year, leaving hundreds of parents, students and staff unhappy with possible changes.
The room was packed during Austin ISD’s board meeting to discuss its recommended budget for next school year. Students, parents and even some staff attended to voice their concerns with some of the recommended budget cuts, which could impact more than 500 jobs within the district.
“What matters most is the students who directly are impacted on a daily basis by people like me,” said Sunny Steir, a librarian in the district. “We’re here for students, we’re here for literacy and we’re here for librarians full time. I have faith you will make the right decision.”…