San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) has been facing significant financial challenges, with a current deficit of $46 million. As the district looks for solutions to cut this deficit in half, it also searches for its next superintendent. This search comes after Superintendent Jaime Aquino announced his retirement, effective January 2027, just a year and a half after he took the position in May 2022.
In a surprising twist, the district spent nearly $500,000 on a single consultant, along with tens of thousands more on attorney fees to review media records requests, all while grappling with its budget crisis. Teachers, like Cynthia Beaver, are hopeful that the next leader will prioritize financial responsibility. “Stop with the frivolous spending and the things that we don’t need,” she emphasized.
Questionable Spending Amid Budget Cuts
Since taking the helm at SAISD, Aquino has incurred at least $36,000 in travel expenses. For instance, he traveled to Washington D.C. in February 2025 to participate in an education panel celebrating Dominican American contributions, costing the district around $700.
He also visited Harvard University in July 2025 for a public education leadership project, with the district covering $588.73 for meals, lodging, and airfare. Additionally, Aquino made multiple trips to Houston ISD, opting to fly rather than drive, which raised eyebrows among community members.
Residents like Rose Hill express concern, stating, “No more trips. Our schools are hurting. I think we need to cut back on the trips until we get our finances under control.” The sentiment reflects a growing desire for the district to tighten its financial practices in light of the ongoing deficit.
Last month, inquiries were made to the district regarding the purpose and benefits of these trips for students and the financial health of SAISD, as well as the impact of Third Future Schools.
In response, Laura Short from the district emphasized the importance of professional development, stating, “Leading a large urban school district like SAISD requires staying connected to what’s working – and what isn’t – across similar districts. Travel to national and regional education conferences, along with campus visits in comparable districts, is purposeful professional work focused on improving student outcomes.”
As the district navigates these financial difficulties, the community remains hopeful for a future where financial prudence becomes a priority.
Know something the public should know about SAISD? Reach out to Daniela at dibarra@ksat.com.
