This fall’s election is poised to have a significant impact on Austin ISD’s future. There is a $2.44 billion bond package on the ballot, which is the largest in district history. If voters approve the bond, the district will be able to rebuild and renovate schools, fix critical infrastructure issues, improve athletic facilities and invest in technology.
On top of the bond, voters will decide five of the nine seats on AISD’s Board of Trustees. The election comes at a crucial time for the district, because the school board plans to hire a permanent superintendent next year.
David DeMatthews, an associate professor at UT Austin’s College of Education, said one of the most important responsibilities school board members have is hiring and evaluating a superintendent. He said leadership is key right now as school districts face teacher shortages and the ongoing impacts of the pandemic.
