Statement by Superintendent Paul Cruz

"Austin ISD is reinventing the urban school experience. We stand proud to support all our students, staff and families, and we are firm in our conviction that All Means All in everything we do.  Without exception, we fully embrace a safe, welcoming environment for all students and staff and believe that acceptance, equity, diversity and inclusion makes us stronger.

Schools are community spaces, and our facilities are hubs in our neighborhoods. Leasing our facilities to outside organizations has been in place for many years. Moreover, federal law restricts the district from denying rental space to organizations once those spaces have been made available to others.

The use of district properties by outside organizations does not create an endorsement of, or an association of that organization with the district.

In addition, funds collected from the Performing Arts Center rental will be dedicated to our districtwide efforts to ensure we support an inclusive, welcoming environment for all students and staff including our LGBTQ students and staff."

Paul Cruz, Ph.D.
Superintendent, Austin Independent School District