Socorro Independent School District Superintendent James Vasquez reflected on the district's progress and renewed purpose during the 2026 State of the District on June 17 at the Student Activities Complex (SAC) II.
During his address, he emphasized that the district has grown stronger after enduring two of the most difficult years in its history, thanks to the “strength” of its people.
“Our students kept learning, competing and achieving. Our teachers and staff kept showing up for our students every day. Our families, volunteers and community partners continued supporting our schools. Even in a difficult chapter, this district never stopped believing in its students. That is what today is about. Socorro ISD is not just buildings, budgets, programs, reports, or data. Socorro ISD is people,” Vasquez said.
He delivered his remarks to district leadership, community leaders and stakeholders, presenting a path focused on stability, accountability and student success.
Vasquez reported significant progress, including moving from a projected $42 million deficit to a balanced budget, with nearly 80% of funding directed toward student support, marking a successful turnaround after two years under state oversight. Despite receiving $1,000 less in funding per student compared to neighboring districts, he emphasized that the district continues to operate efficiently.
He also pointed out that Socorro has the lowest tax rate among districts of its size in the region. Since 2020, the district has reduced the total tax rate by 44 cents.
“That is important context. Socorro ISD is not producing strong results because it has more resources than others. Socorro ISD is producing strong results while operating with less,” Vasquez said.
Academically, Socorro ISD remains the highest-scoring district in the El Paso region, demonstrating consistent improvement in state assessments and strong outcomes for college and career readiness. Preliminary results from the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness End-of-Course (STAAR/EOC) indicate that SISD has made gains in every subject reported so far compared to last year's scores. This year’s graduates earned $93 million in scholarships, nearly 500 associate degrees and 3,300 industry certifications.
Looking ahead, Vasquez outlined priorities including strengthening financial stability, rebuilding the fund balance, growing student achievement and rebuilding trust through transparency and engagement.
With the district’s conservatorship nearing its end, he thanked TEA Conservators Andrew Kim and Dr. Michael Hinojosa for strengthening the district and getting it back on track.
“Conservatorship was not easy. It required us to take a hard look at our systems, decisions and responsibilities. Throughout the process, Mr. Kim and Dr. Hinojosa have challenged us, guided us and supported us as we strengthen the district,” Vasquez said.
Hinojosa presented his “Almost Exit Report,” noting significant improvements.
Following his presentation, Hinojosa said he was confident in the district's leadership team, which worked well with the conservators to bring about positive changes, particularly in budget management and financial responsibility. He emphasized that the district needed to focus on rebuilding voters' confidence and trust.
“I'm actually quite surprised that we made this much progress this quickly, but it's because of the talent that's in the district. And so, I think with the leadership they have now, both on the board and on the staff, they're not going to have that problem again,” Hinojosa said.
Vasquez emphasized that the difficulties of the past two years would not define the district’s future or the future of its students.
“It is time to move forward. Not by forgetting what happened. Not by pretending everything is perfect. But by choosing to write the next chapter together with honesty, discipline, courage and heart,” Vasquez said.