El Paso Matters•Dec 16
Ysleta ISD Faces Enrollment Crisis and Budget Deficits Amid Declining Birth Rates
Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) is grappling with a significant drop in student enrollment, losing approximately 1,400 students, or 4%, for the 2025-26 academic year. This decline, which has accelerated since the COVID-19 pandemic, has prompted the district to reassess its budget, resulting in a projected $19.5 million deficit for the current school year. The decrease in kindergarten enrollment, which has fallen by 25% to around 1,950 students, is particularly concerning as it indicates long-term implications for funding and planning. YISD's financial struggles are compounded by reduced state funding linked to attendance, leading to cost-cutting measures such as limiting hiring and renegotiating contracts. With the district's reserves dwindling, stakeholders are urged to stay informed about upcoming budget updates and potential impacts on staff compensation.
Education enrollment budget1 min read
