State board pleas and federal reprieve as Isaac district fights for payroll

President Haley opened the State Board of Education meeting with a pledge to prioritize student stability as board members and public speakers pressed for immediate help for Isaac School District.

Member Katany, speaking as a board member and educator with ties to Isaac, described students and staff "in tears" and urged the legislature to act that day to prevent closures affecting about 5,000 students and 650 staff. "The families of the Isaac School District are counting on you," the member said.

During public comment Marisol Garcia, who introduced herself as president of the Arizona Education Association and an Isaac teacher, echoed those calls and described educators worried about whether they will have a place to work and paychecks to meet expenses.

After a midmeeting recess, Superintendent Horn reported that the federal government agreed to return $6 million the state requested on Isaac’s behalf. Horn said the returned funds should cover roughly three payrolls but cautioned they may not arrive in time for the next payroll cycle. He said the department is monitoring an emergency legislative proposal that, if passed, would direct counties to use an advance of state aid for payroll rather than to retire other debts.

Board members and staff emphasized that the funds are a short-term bridge. President Haley and Executive Director Ross thanked staff and stakeholders for rapid responses to the crisis and noted the board’s recent emergency hearings that helped expedite attention to Isaac’s needs.

The meeting record shows the board continuing to press the legislature and county officials for a resolution that will preserve operations and payroll while longer-term remedies are pursued.