Arizona Lawmaker Urges School Boards to Stop Sleeping on the Job Amid Isaac District Financial Mismanagement

PHOENIX — The financial crisis at Isaac School District has forced a superintendent to resign and raised alarms among state officials. Maricopa County estimates the district has overspent by a staggering $28 million, putting the future of the school and its staff’s salaries at imminent risk.

In light of this situation, State Representative Matt Gress has proposed HB 2610, a bill aimed at addressing financial mismanagement in school districts. Gress asserts this legislation serves as a crucial warning for all educational institutions in Arizona.

“What happened at Isaac School District is appalling,” Gress stated, emphasizing the need for accountability among school boards. The proposed bill would enable the appointment of a third-party “receiver” to oversee districts facing insolvency issues. In the case of confirmed mismanagement, the receiver would be tasked with terminating the superintendent and removing governing board members.

Gress also highlighted strict consequences for those responsible for financial failures, stating, “It makes those governing board members who were responsible for the failure of that school district ineligible to run for school board ever again in the state of Arizona.”

While the bill addresses the challenges at Isaac School District, Gress noted that many other districts are experiencing similar financial difficulties. The Arizona Auditor General has identified multiple districts facing serious financial risks, with some spending far beyond their revenues.

“They violated the public trust,” Gress remarked, referring to the ISD’s mishandling of funds. He also indicated that lawmakers are working on emergency funding legislation to support ISD, aiming for approval before the upcoming teacher payroll.