Austin ISD plans staff evaluations during campus restarts to enhance core instruction

Rising costs and staffing concerns dominated the recent Austin ISD Board Information Session, held on May 8, 2025. The meeting highlighted the district's decision to implement a graduation fee, a move aimed at aligning with surrounding school districts and addressing the increasing financial burden of event security and staffing.

Trustee Hunter raised significant concerns voiced by students regarding potential staff layoffs and the transition of schools into charter systems. In response, district officials clarified that the proposed "restart" plan for three campuses—Burnett, Webb, and Adobe—would not involve moving students or firing staff. Instead, the plan focuses on evaluating core instructional staff, while classified staff such as custodians and food service workers will remain unaffected.

The administration emphasized that the goal is to retain as many staff members as possible within the district, citing confidence in their ability to accommodate staff through attrition. Additionally, the plan aims to ensure that fine arts and athletics programs continue to thrive, as these areas will not be part of the evaluation process.

As the meeting concluded, the board prepared to enter executive session for a legal update, signaling ongoing discussions about the district's future and its commitment to maintaining educational standards amidst financial challenges.