Texas School District Under The Microscope After Superintendent Contract Extension
EAGLE PASS, TX — The Eagle Pass Independent School District (EPISD), Maverick County’s largest taxing entity, is under intense public scrutiny following revelations of political favoritism, questionable hiring practices, and a superintendent contract that guarantees nearly $300,000 annually through 2029. What began as outrage over one man’s salary has unraveled into a wider investigation of what many are calling a “web of corruption” inside the district.
The Salary That Sparked the Outrage
Superintendent Samuel Mijares is paid $287,121.12 per year, a figure that eclipses the salaries of the Governor of Texas, members of Congress, and even the Director of the FBI. That contract, quietly extended until 2029, set off alarm bells across the community. Parents, teachers, and taxpayers now question how resources are being allocated in a district that faces teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms, and safety concerns.
Allegations of Political Influence
Sources inside the district have alleged that EPISD administrators pressured employees to sell fundraiser tickets and back political candidates during recent city elections. Those who resisted or supported rival candidates reportedly faced retaliation, including reassignments and stalled career advancement.
“These weren’t suggestions. They were demands,” one source said. “The school district has become more about political enforcement than education.”
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Hiring for Loyalty Over Credentials
Concerns also extend to hiring practices. Multiple individuals allegedly hold high-paying jobs without proper certifications or qualifications, chosen not for their expertise but for their political connections and ability to mobilize votes.
“They don’t have the experience,” another insider said. “But they have loyalty — and that’s what really matters here.”
Media on the Payroll
Further reports reveal that EPISD has funneled significant amounts of taxpayer money into local media. One Spanish-only tabloid, El Latino, has reportedly received more than $100,000 over the past two years alone. While other local outlets have been paid smaller amounts, no contract comes close to what El Latino has received — raising questions about whether public funds are being used to control political messaging rather than promote transparency.
Fear Inside the District
The silence from the EPISD Board of Trustees has only fueled distrust. Educators and staff describe an atmosphere of intimidation where speaking out carries risks.
“There is fear,” one long-time employee admitted. “Fear of transfers, fear of retaliation, fear of losing your job just for telling the truth.”
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Pueblo Chico, Infierno Grande
This combination of money, influence, sexual favors and silence has laid the foundation for a deeper look at the district’s operations. The Maverick Times is launching a special investigative series titled Pueblo Chico, Infierno Grande, a phrase that captures how corruption and misconduct can thrive in small communities where power is tightly held.
The initial reports already hint at a disturbing story of sex, influence, and taxpayer dollars being used to protect those in power. EPISD, as the highest taxing entity in Maverick County, owes the community answers. This series will uncover the layers of this web of corruption and shine a light on how education, politics, and money are colliding in Eagle Pass.
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