After reaching a "stabilized" financial condition, the Socorro Independent School District is no longer in a state of conservatorship with the Texas Education Agency.
Following successful completion of established financial criteria and sustained implementation of "corrective actions," the announcement ends the state's move that began on March 7, 2024.
Among the key concerns addressed by SISD were strengthening governance, improving financial and operational systems, increasing transparency, addressing academic compliance concerns and supporting long-term student success, the district noted.
SISD is one of the largest public school systems in the region, serving approximately 46,000 to 48,000 students. It ranks as the second-largest school district
in El Paso County. It includes 30 elementary schools, 11 middle schools and nine high schools.
"This is a meaningful moment for Socorro ISD and for our entire community," SISD Superintendent James Vasquez said. "TEA’s decision recognizes the hard work Team SISD has done to address challenges, strengthen systems, and build a stronger foundation for the future. We are grateful to Dr. Michael Hinojosa, Andrew Kim, TEA staff, our Board of Trustees, employees, families, and community for their partnership and support throughout this process."
Over the course of conservatorship, the district restored a balanced budget process and resolved a $42 million deficit.
SISD financial performance in fiscal year 2026 was lauded by New York credit agency Moody's following a period of deficit spending, recognizing substantial expenditure reductions, a projected addition of approximately $4 million to the district's fund balance, adoption of a balanced fiscal year 2027 budget and a $5 million reduction in annual cash-flow borrowing.
TEA conservator Andrew Kim also recognized the district’s progress in the agency’s announcement, stating that newly established systems in budgeting, procurement, and governance will help Socorro ISD “restore public confidence and better support its mission of serving students, families and its community.”
Academically, SISD improved accountability results, with an increased number of A-rated campuses and no D- or F-rated campuses.
"On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I want to thank TEA, Dr. Hinojosa, Mr. Kim, Superintendent Vasquez, and every member of Team SISD who contributed to this progress," said SISD Board President Michael Najera. "This milestone reflects the district’s commitment to doing the hard work, making difficult decisions, and putting stronger systems in place. The board remains focused on student outcomes, responsible governance, financial stability, and earning the continued confidence of the community we serve."
Kristian Jaime is the Top Story Reporter for the El Paso Times and is reachable at Kjaime@elpasotimes.com.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Socorro ISD exits TEA conservatorship after fixing $42M deficit
