Texas Border School Board Under Fire After Extending Superintendent’s Contract
EAGLE PASS, TX — The Eagle Pass Independent School District (EPISD) Board of Trustees is under scrutiny after approving a contract extension for Superintendent Samuel Mijares through 2029. The new agreement includes an annual salary exceeding $280,000 and a $1,000 monthly car allowance, despite widespread public opposition and concerns over declining academic performance.
Academic Scores in Decline
EPISD has seen a significant drop in performance during Mijares’ tenure. The district’s rating fell from an A to a C, according to the Texas Education Agency. Reading, math, and science proficiency levels at Eagle Pass High School continue to trail behind state benchmarks.
Many parents and residents voiced frustration, arguing that student achievement should be prioritized over administrative pay increases. Calls to delay or reject the extension were largely dismissed by the board.
Split Vote by the Board
The board vote reflected a deep divide among trustees:
In Favor:
- Jorge Barrera
- Hilda P. Martinez
- Victor E. Perry
- Morris Libson Jr. (appointed)
- Tom Gonzalez
Opposed:
- Christopher Hiller
- Jaime C. Barrera
No new accountability measures or performance improvement plans were introduced during the meeting.
Community Reaction
Residents who attended the meeting expressed disappointment in the board’s decision. Several noted that pleas from community members were overlooked. Concerns centered on transparency, fiscal responsibility, and the district’s educational trajectory.
A parent in attendance said, “This was a chance for the board to listen and correct course. Instead, they chose to ignore the public.”
Long-Term Commitment Without Clear Results
The contract locks in Mijares through 2029, securing long-term leadership at a time when many feel a change is needed. Board members who supported the renewal cited stability and continuity. Critics argued that declining student outcomes suggest a need for new direction.
EPISD has yet to issue a formal statement addressing the backlash. Additional board meetings are scheduled ahead of the new academic year.
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