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El Paso Teachers’ Unions Clash Over School Board Elections
The El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) is facing a significant political battle as two major teachers' unions engage in a heated feud over endorsements for the upcoming school board election on May 3. The El Paso Teachers Association (EPTA) and the El Paso American Federation of Teachers (EPAFT) are backing rival candidates, leading to a public war of words that reflects deeper tensions within the educational landscape.
Both unions have accused each other of opportunistic politics without providing substantial evidence to support their claims. “This has been one of the most political elections that I can remember,” stated EPISD board President Israel Irrobali, who seeks reelection. He called the divisiveness disheartening and emphasized the need for unity among educators to confront larger challenges facing public education in El Paso.
Division and Discontent: A Growing Rivalry
The rift between these unions intensified after disagreements surfaced regarding the closure of eight elementary schools, a controversial decision attributed to declining enrollment and a looming $32 million deficit in the district’s budget. EPTA President Norma De La Rosa criticized the EPAFT for favoring candidates financially supported by political action committees linked to the charter school movement, raising concerns about the future of traditional public education in the area.
Implications for Public Education
This election's outcome could have lasting ramifications not only for the district's governance but for public education funding and policies in El Paso. With twelve candidates in the race for four crucial board seats, the stakes are higher than ever.
Early voting began on April 22 and will continue until April 29, with election day set for May 3. If no candidate secures over 50% of the votes, a runoff on June 7 will follow. Amidst the intense scrutiny from parents and community members regarding school closures, this election could shape the educational environment in El Paso for years to come.
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