In a heated special meeting of the El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) Board of Trustees on May 27, 2025, tensions flared over the potential removal of Superintendent Diana Saavedra. The discussion centered around allegations that the board president, Leah Hanani, was attempting to oust Saavedra not due to performance issues or scandals, but rather because of political pressures and personal motives.

Trustee Paul, a vocal opponent of the proposed removal, accused Hanani of attempting to install a superintendent aligned with her political interests, citing a past conflict of interest during the 2021 superintendent search. He claimed that Hanani had advocated for Dr. Daryl Hansen, a candidate from Marlin ISD, while employed there, which he described as a significant breach of public trust. This alleged concealment, he argued, demonstrated a pattern of political maneuvering that could jeopardize the integrity of the district.

Saavedra, who took over during the pandemic and faced numerous challenges, was praised by Trustee Paul for her dedication to the district and her focus on student welfare over political games. He warned that her removal could lead to the installation of a superintendent who might prioritize political loyalty over educational integrity, potentially repeating past mistakes that had led to scandals within the district.

The meeting also highlighted concerns from EPISD employees, many of whom expressed fear of retaliation for speaking out against the board's actions. Trustee Paul read several letters from staff members who felt their voices were being stifled, emphasizing the need for transparency and ethical governance.

As the meeting concluded, Trustee Paul made it clear that he would not support the removal of Saavedra, framing the issue as a critical moment for the district's future. He urged his fellow trustees to consider the long-term implications of their decisions, warning that any move to oust the superintendent would not only reflect poorly on the board but could also lead to detrimental consequences for the district and its students.

The discussions at this meeting underscore the ongoing struggle within EPISD regarding leadership, accountability, and the influence of political dynamics on educational governance. As the board deliberates on Saavedra's future, the community watches closely, aware that the outcome could significantly impact the direction of the district and the education of its 47,000 students.