Add Row 
Add 
Superintendent Diana Sayavedra's Departure: A Community Divided
Diana Sayavedra, the superintendent of the El Paso Independent School District (EPISD), has accepted a voluntary separation agreement, announcing her retirement after a contentious Board of Trustees meeting held on June 3, 2025. The decision was made after a lengthy five-hour session during which the board voted 4-2 to approve her exit. Sayavedra expressed profound gratitude to her staff and the community, stating, "It’s been my greatest honor and privilege to serve this school district. We’ve accomplished a lot of great work together."
A Financial Perspective on the Separation Agreement
As per the separation agreement, Sayavedra is entitled to just under $348,000, which represents eleven months’ worth of salary and benefits. This payment, split into two installments—$148,000 by her resignation date and another $200,000 towards her retirement plan—has raised questions within the community regarding its transparency and necessity. Board members, particularly Leah Hanany, Mindy Sutton, Alex Cuellar, and Jack Loveridge, backed this financial outcome, while dissenters Valerie Ganelon Beals and Daniel Call raised concerns about accountability and the implications for EPISD's future.
The Reaction of the Community
The board meeting was marked by emotional speeches, with many attendees voicing their support for Sayavedra. Opponents of her exit characterized the board’s decision as a detrimental step for the district’s nearly 47,000 students. There is a palpable sense of uncertainty surrounding the direction of EPISD as Sayavedra transitions to an emeritus status—highlighting the need for community engagement in addressing educational leadership.
The Future Leadership of EPISD
Following Sayavedra’s retirement, the board seamlessly transitioned by appointing Chief Financial Officer Martha Aguirre as the interim superintendent effective June 16. This unprecedented shift draws the community's attention not just to the immediate operational changes, but also to the long-term implications for EPISD’s direction.
Concluding Thoughts
As EPISD prepares to enter a new chapter under interim leadership, the community is urged to reflect on the values of support, transparency, and collaboration that underpin a prosperous educational environment. Engaging stakeholders in meaningful dialogue about the district's future is paramount.
Add Row 
Add 
Write A Comment