Northside ISD Plans Budget Cuts Amid Projected $101M Deficit

Northside Independent School District (NISD) is set to embark on a significant expansion project at John Marshall High School, which will include the addition of new classrooms, a career center, and enhanced facilities for teachers and staff. The NISD Board approved the schematic design for this expansion during their recent meeting on March 25, 2025, marking a pivotal step in improving educational resources for students.

The expansion aims to preserve the historical essence of John Marshall while modernizing its facilities. Board members expressed their enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the importance of maintaining the school's unique character, including its beautiful courtyard and natural light features. The construction is scheduled to begin this summer, with completion anticipated by the end of next summer.

In addition to the expansion, the board discussed pressing financial challenges facing the district. NISD is grappling with a projected budget deficit exceeding $100 million for the upcoming fiscal year. This situation has prompted the district to reevaluate staffing ratios and operational expenditures. The board emphasized the need to protect jobs while making necessary adjustments to align staffing levels with declining student enrollment, which is expected to dip below 100,000 students.

The district's leadership is committed to maintaining educational quality despite these financial constraints. They are exploring strategies to optimize resources, including potential adjustments to staffing ratios and a focus on retaining essential programs. The board reassured stakeholders that no jobs would be lost due to these changes, as efforts will be made to reassign staff where possible.

As NISD navigates these challenges, the board remains hopeful for legislative support to address funding shortfalls, particularly in special education, which has been significantly underfunded. The district is actively monitoring legislative developments that could impact its financial outlook.

Overall, the recent board meeting underscored NISD's dedication to enhancing educational facilities while addressing fiscal challenges head-on, ensuring that students continue to receive quality education in a supportive environment.