SLP Advocate urges EPISD board to prioritize funding over unnecessary investigations

The Special Meeting of the Board of Trustees for the El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) on May 27, 2025, featured passionate appeals from staff advocating for special education resources. A speech by a speech-language pathologist (SLP) from Coach Archituran Elementary School and Urban High School highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the support for special education professionals and the students they serve.

The SLP emphasized the urgent need for continued investment in special education, expressing frustration over what they described as unnecessary expenditures on investigations that do not address the core issues facing the district. They praised Superintendent Diana Syavedra for her commitment to improving conditions for special education staff and students, noting her proactive leadership during challenging times.

The speaker urged the board to focus on solutions rather than spending resources on what they termed a "witch hunt," suggesting that such actions could detract from the district's mission to support vulnerable students. The call for unity and constructive action resonated throughout the meeting, reflecting a broader concern for the welfare of both employees and students within the district.

As the meeting concluded, the emphasis on prioritizing effective support for special education was clear, with stakeholders advocating for a collaborative approach to address the pressing needs of the community. The board's response to these concerns will be crucial in shaping the future of special education services in EPISD.