The Socorro Independent School District (ISD) Board of Trustees held a regular meeting on May 21, 2025, where significant discussions centered around the ongoing search for a new superintendent. The meeting featured public comments emphasizing the need for community involvement in the selection process.

Craig Patton, a former board member with 14 years of service, addressed the board, highlighting the importance of transparency and community engagement in the superintendent search. He expressed concern over the search firm's recommendation for confidentiality throughout the process, arguing that past searches had successfully included community input. Patton stressed that excluding the community would be disrespectful, noting that voters elect board members and should have a voice in such critical decisions.

The board's interim superintendent, Mr. Vasquez, was acknowledged for his efforts, but Patton insisted that the search for a permanent superintendent should not proceed without public involvement. He argued that potential candidates often seek advancement in their careers and that their current employers would not resent them for applying for a higher position.

The meeting also included comments from Bonnie Bettis, a parent and supporter of the district, who expressed her pride in the Socorro ISD and her son’s upcoming graduation. While her remarks were not detailed in the transcript, they contributed to the overall atmosphere of community support for the district.

The discussions at this meeting underscore the board's commitment to ensuring that the superintendent search process is inclusive and reflective of community values, setting the stage for future decisions that will impact the district's leadership. The board is expected to consider these community sentiments as they move forward with the search.