Austin ISD approves budget, still faces deficit
AUSTIN (KXAN) — The Austin Independent School District approved its 2025-2026 budget Thursday night.
The $1.58 billion budge includes more than $715 million in recapture, which will go to the state.
Despite cuts and cost saving measures, as well as about $9 million the district expects to get from the state, the district expects to close the 2025-2026 budget with a more than $40 million deficit.
It will also start the year with a more than $19 million budget deficit to the general fund.
The general fund helps pay for teacher salaries and daily operations.
Discussions continue on how to save money with school closures and consolidations currently being discussed.
In June, more than 170 employees from AISD’s central office staff were laid off to address the deficit.
“I recognize this is a very challenging time for our community and I encourage every student, staff and family member within Austin ISD to navigate this with empathy,” said Segura. “This restructuring is only one step in a series of difficult conversations and decisions that must be made to ensure our district remains stable and we can maintain our ability to offer the highest quality education.”
Along with the staff cuts, the AISD board has discussed consolidating schools in order to balance its budget. Segura said the cuts are “a critical step” before consolidating schools.
“The impact of this restructure and every individual affected will be felt,” he said.
