Uncertain Future for South San ISD as Conservatorship Year Wraps Up

Uncertain Future for South San ISD as Conservatorship Year Wraps Up

In South San Antonio, the clock has run out, and a year-long conservatorship over the local school district is approaching its conclusion with more questions than answers. After what many hoped would be a transformative 12 months under the watchful eye of Abe Saavedra, the conservator appointed by the Texas Education Agency (TEA), the next steps for South San Antonio Independent School District (ISD) remain shrouded in uncertainty.

Close to a year ago, a group of lively supporters made headlines by donning clown costumes to express their frustrations during a board meeting—an event that became a symbol of the tumultuous situation within the district. They rallied behind Abel “Chillidogg” Martinez, a trustee who had stood up against a potential state takeover of the district. These colorful protests highlighted broader issues of dysfunction within the board that led the TEA to intervene.

Changes in Behavior, But Will They Last?

Since Saavedra took the reins, there have been assurances that trustees are increasingly working together to resolve conflicts. Gone are the days of clown-themed protests, replaced by a more subdued approach to governance. Saavedra cited improvements in board cooperation in his monthly reports. However, as we draw closer to the end of his term, the TEA has yet to announce its next move.

Saavedra shared with us, “Honestly, I don’t know what way they’re leaning, nor the date they’ll issue their ruling.” He laid out various possibilities: the board could remain the same, he could be replaced with a less stringent monitor, or even face a full state takeover. The potential for the board to be declared fully functional and the TEA to withdraw its intervention exists but remains uncertain.

Reflecting on a Year of Progress

Since beginning his role, Saavedra has been closely tracking the board’s progress through a color-coded system in his reports. Initially littered with yellow and red marks representing issues not yet addressed and off-track objectives, the reports now boast a more encouraging tally of green and blue indicators showing objectives on track and completed.

Many issues were raised in those reports, particularly concerning board behavior. One worrying instance included a trustee charged with a felony following a disruptive meeting. While that specific case reached a resolution earlier this year, it nonetheless cast a shadow over the board’s overall progress. Fortunately, the circus-like atmosphere from last October seems to have been replaced with a more serious approach to governance.

Is the Board on the Right Track?

Despite the documented improvements, not all has gone smoothly. Notably, attendance at board meetings has been inconsistent, with some trustees missing roughly 74% of meetings. While Saavedra reported an overall improvement in decorum during meetings, he noted persistent issues, such as one trustee frequently utilizing their cell phone during sessions or publicly calling out district administrators.

The board even faced some big decisions during this period, such as adopting a balanced budget for the upcoming fiscal year and raising property taxes. Additionally, they voted to close West Campus High School, a decision that has sparked plenty of community debate.

What Lies Ahead for South San ISD?

The TEA’s settlement with South San ISD, effective since September 22, 2023, mandated that the district cooperate with oversight for the past year, binding their hands regarding appeal rights. Whatever happens next, the future of this district hangs in the balance. Saavedra continues to clock in hours to oversee this transition and ensure that South San ISD heads in a more favorable direction.

Now, as we await a decisive ruling from the TEA, there are hopes that South San ISD can continue to evolve into a model of effective governance and collaboration. Here’s to hoping the clowns—even in their absence—have played a part in guiding this district toward a brighter future for its students and community.