Dallas ISD Superintendent Stephanie S. Elizalde Urges Action for Texas Public Schools During Special Session

Stephanie S. Elizalde, Ed.D., Superintendent of Dallas Independent School District (DISD), has voiced her concerns about the ongoing special session in the Texas Legislature. Elizalde’s message underscores the critical need for an increase in public school funding, which has remained stagnant since 2019, while inflation continues to rise, posing significant financial challenges for schools in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and throughout Texas.

Elizalde expressed apprehension about the focus on diverting public school funds to subsidize private education, a topic that has sparked controversy and debate across the state. Additionally, the special session has drawn attention to various contentious political issues, including border security, public safety, and COVID-19 vaccine restrictions, all at the behest of Governor’s directive.

However, the absence of public school funding increases from the governor’s mandate has raised concerns among educators and administrators alike. Elizalde highlighted the financial strain on school districts like DISD, which have been forced to utilize savings to maintain their budgets in the face of inflation.

As the special session unfolds, Governor and state leaders’ strategic scheduling during the school year has prompted concerns that educators may not have adequate opportunities to advocate for increased funding for public schools.

Stephanie S. Elizalde is now calling on concerned citizens to take action and contact state lawmakers to emphasize the vital importance of supporting public schools. She acknowledges the challenges but stresses that it is crucial to be a voice for students who cannot vote and to ensure that legislators prioritize the needs of Texas public schools during this pivotal special session.