Community speaks out after Bastrop ISD says it’s facing ‘financial challenges’

AUSTIN (KXAN) — The superintendent for Bastrop ISD said the district is facing financial challenges resulting in a “budget shortfall of nearly $8 million” for the next school year.

In a letter to parents and staff , Superintendent Barry Edwards said the district’s department budgets would be reduced by 15% and current staff would need to take on extra responsibilities due to vacant positions.

“We remain optimistic that the Texas Legislature will step up to its fiduciary responsibility and fully fund public schools in the next legislative session. Until then, we are working together to overcome the challenges,” Edwards wrote in the letter .

Edwards outlined the following points that led to the budget shortfall:

• The end of federal covid money
• A lack of additional funding from the most recent legislative session
• inflation

“In the midst of these challenges, Bastrop ISD remains committed to providing the best education and services possible, preserving the District as a great place to learn and teach, and maintaining a safe learning environment for our students,” Edwards wrote in the letter.

During a board meeting, parents and the community pleaded with the district to find other ways to balance the budget.

“Look again for other areas to cut that do not have an impact on our children, our teachers and our classroom,” Toni Malone, president of the Bastrop Federation of Teachers, said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.