District leaders and the board of trustees will have a new way to track student achievement for the next five years with a new scorecard. 

Why it matters: The scorecard is like the superintendent's report card — it's how the board will hold the administration accountable for improving student outcomes.

The Board of Trustees adopted the 2024–25 budget, totaling $954 million in operating expenses, at its June 20 Regular Voting Meeting.  

The details: Austin taxpayers generated $1.69 billion in revenue for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins July 1. However, after $821 million is sent to the state’s recapture program, the district will operate with a $78 million deficit for the 2024-25 school year. 

Juneteenth celebrations are in full-swing in Austin as the community celebrates the holiday, which marks the end of slavery in the United States. 

The Board of Trustees is meeting weekly this month as they refine two major items that will determine how Austin ISD operates for years to come.

Why it matters: With the ongoing financial strain due to outdated state funding and recapture, it’s critical for the district to keep a focus on student achievement while making every dollar count.

Let’s dig into the latest budget discussions:

Dozens of students began their first day of the inaugural Austin ISD Summer Internship program, in partnership with the Austin Ed Fund and the Austin Chamber. 

• The new program is in collaboration with the Travis County Summer Youth Employment Program, which has historically placed students in paid summer internships throughout the city.

Why it matters: The program will provide 36 students with work experience, skills development, and community engagement. For many it’s their first time in the workforce.