Isaac School District Teachers Approve Return to Work as Education Committee Moves to Safeguard School Operations

PHOENIX — In a crucial vote on Tuesday, teachers at Isaac School District opted to return to class Wednesday morning, as confirmed by a spokesperson from the Arizona Education Association. This decision follows the Arizona House of Representatives Education Committee’s advancement of legislation aimed at keeping the district operational amid its ongoing financial crisis.

House Bill 2610 passed with bipartisan support and is set to ensure that staff at the troubled school district receive compensation for the coming weeks. State Representative Matt Gress, R-District 4, characterized the bill as a temporary measure that demands further deliberation. He criticized district leaders for their mismanagement, suggesting they should “be ashamed” of the situation that put Isaac’s schools at risk.

The Isaac School District, located in the West Valley, has faced severe challenges, leading to its placement in state receivership and the resignation of its superintendent. The newly proposed legislation aims to implement penalties for districts like Isaac, allowing the county school superintendent to remove and replace school board members who have failed in their duties.

Additionally, HB2610 mandates that the receiver terminate the superintendent of a district under receivership. It also authorizes the county treasurer to issue warrants totaling $2.5 million to help alleviate Isaac’s financial woes.

Despite these efforts, concerns linger regarding the bill’s ability to provide a long-term solution. Representative Nancy Gutierrez raised alarms that the allocated funds may be insufficient and could leave staff uncertain about their future paychecks. “For staff to show up for the next two weeks and be unclear about whether they will be paid again is not ideal,” she stated.

The legislation will soon proceed to the full House for a vote. Meanwhile, teachers plan to reevaluate their situation after school on Wednesday. A special meeting of the Isaac School District Governing board is also scheduled for that evening.