EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — El Paso’s largest school district is grappling with shrinking enrollment, budget pressure and questions about campus safety as new Superintendent Dr. Brian Lusk takes over at the El Paso Independent School District.
Lusk joined the KFOX14 Community Conversations segment to discuss what the transition has been like since he recently assumed leadership of EPISD and what challenges he is seeing as he works to move the district forward.
Among the biggest issues raised was enrollment. EPISD is operating at about 60 percent capacity, a figure that comes as districts across El Paso and Texas report budget challenges tied to low enrollment.
Questions were also raised about what is contributing to the district’s lower enrollment and whether school closures are being considered.
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The district’s budget gap was another focus. EPISD is offering a $3,000 resignation incentive for central office employees as part of its effort to address the shortfall.
Questions were raised about how many employees have taken the offer and whether additional cuts are likely.
Safety and communication were also discussed in connection with an ongoing district investigation into sexual assault allegations involving a now-former employee at Don Haskins School.
Some parents have said they have not been notified about the district’s investigation, prompting questions about why that is and whether communication can improve going forward.
WATCH FULL INTERVIEW:
EPISD Superintendent discusses early challenges, priorities after taking over district
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