EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — The Socorro Independent School District Board of Trustees has announced James Vasquez as the lone finalist for the superintendent position.
The decision was made during the board’s regular meeting on Tuesday, June 24, following an extensive hiring process that included nine community listening meetings and a survey to identify the qualities desired in a new superintendent.
Board member Ryan Woodcraft expressed his support, saying, “From a concerned parent perspective, about a year, year and a half ago to today, I’ve been extremely impressed. Not only with the district staff and the turnaround we have made, but by the leadership under Mister Vasquez.”
Alice Gardea, another board member, praised Vasquez for promoting “unity, transparency and respect,” while SISD Board President Michael Najera acknowledged the lengthy search process, stating, “I know it’s been a protracted superintendent search and great things take time.”
“I am honored to be named the finalist for the Socorro ISD superintendent position,” Vasquez said. “I have a long history in Socorro, and I am truly humbled and excited to assume the role of superintendent. I look forward to continue working collaboratively with our dedicated staff, students, and families to build upon our district’s legacy of excellence and continued success for all.”
SISD also announced a projected budget surplus after months of cuts and changes to staffing procedures.
The district projects spending of $561M and revenues totaling $568M, giving the district a surplus for the first time in nearly a decade.
District staff also announced raises for administration staff, which were separate from the statewide raises for teachers and other staff.
The fate of the district’s health clinic for employees was deferred to July, but officials recommended a model to work with UMC to outsource the services instead.
That plan would see $875,000 of SISD funds spent with UMC for 6,000 primary care visits for similar prices as before.
SISD’s board unanimously approved a limit to the number of school meals a student can charge without payment until they’re switched to low-cost alternate meal.
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