EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — KTSM 9 News is learning more about El Paso Independent School District’s former chief financial officer, Martha Aguirre, abrupt resignation as the district is facing a $52.8 million deficit this year.

EPISD CFO resigns amid expected multi-million budget shortfall

Documents obtained by KTSM on Wednesday, June 3, provide Aguirre’s resignation letter, highlighting her reasons for leaving. The letter was written to El Paso ISD’s Superintendent, Dr. Brian Lusk on May 5.

In the letter, Aguirre first emphasizes her time and career at the district, saying she has taken great pride in her contribution to EPISD. She also highlighted her 12 years working “hand-in-hand to resolve the district’s financial challenges with great success,” read part of her letter.

Then Aguirre states her reason for leaving.

“I have made the decision to step away from a work environment where I do not feel my contributions recognized or respected. Your expressed lack of confidence in my technical abilities, along with repeated dismissive responses to the information I have shared, has made it increasingly difficult for me to continue effectively in my role,” read part of her letter.

This information comes as EPISD’s Board of Trustees discusses a plan that may result in numerous staffing reductions and a declaration of financial exigency.

EPISD weighs financial exigency, staffing reductions as district faces budget challenges

In part of the documents obtained by KTSM, EPISD Human Resources accepted Aguirre’s resignation and gave her final day on duty to be May 15.

Aguirre led the district temporarily when the previous superintendent, Diana Sayavedra, retired last year in 2025.

EPISD to pay Sayavedra $347K as part of voluntary retirement agreement

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