I hope everyone had a chance to find some rest and truly recharge over the weekend. As we head into this new week, I’m mindful that our students are starting STAAR and EOC assessments. Our teachers and support staff have put in incredible work all year to prepare our students for success. Please continue to show up for our students and families by being present and creating those optimal testing environments where every child can shine. For all the specifics, you can always reference the 2025-2026 Austin ISD Testing Calendar.

As we prepare for the 2026–27 school year, our district is facing a significant challenge: a potential $181 million budget deficit. This gap is the result of a "perfect storm" of rising operational costs, declining property values, and a lack of increased funding from the state. At its core, this gap exists because Austin ISD prioritizes essential programs and services that the state does not fund. 

I want to emphasize that we are looking for savings in every corner of the district to protect the classroom experience. However, after years of lean management and administrative cuts, we have reached a point where we are running out of options that won't be felt by our schools. We are now tasked with making very difficult decisions about the programs and services we provide.

Join the Conversation

These decisions are deeply personal because they affect the people and programs that make Austin ISD special. As a community, we need your perspective to help us prioritize the programs and services that matter most to our students. To ensure our approach is as thoughtful and inclusive as possible, I invite you to get involved to help us shape a sustainable path forward before the final board vote on June 18:

Mark Your Calendars:

Virtual Sessions: April 25 and May 9 (11 a.m.–12 p.m.)

In-Person Session: Austin High School on April 28 (6–7 p.m.)

Take the Survey: Complete our 2026–27 Budget Feedback Survey no later than April 30.

I am beyond grateful to do this work alongside such a dedicated team and a community so invested in the success of our students and schools. Let’s keep that collaborative spirit going as we head into a productive week!

Monday, Apr 13, 2026

We’re hitting the ground running on Monday morning with senior leadership to debrief on pending items and ensure we’re fully aligned for the week ahead. From there, I’ll transition into my regular check-in with Trustee De Urioste. After lunch, I’ll be diving back into the numbers as I meet with CFO Katrina Montgomery to review the FY 26-27 budget. Right after that, I’ll connect with a community member before pivoting to a milestone refinement meeting with our Accountability team. To wrap up a productive day, I’ll be joining Trustee Kauffman for our ongoing one on one conversations.

Tuesday, Apr 14, 2026

I’m kicking off Tuesday with the budget team as we continue the milestone refinement process, ensuring our efforts remain squarely focused on the Board’s priorities. Finding the right leaders for our schools remains a top priority, so I’ll be conducting a principal interview afterward. In the afternoon, I’m looking forward to catching up with Trustee Singh for our check-in, and connecting with our campus leaders at the Vertical Team Leader Plus meeting. I’ll close out the day by attending the Austin Community Foundation’s Austin in Common event. 

Wednesday, Apr 15, 2026

Wednesday morning starts with Missy Bender, Executive Director of the Texas School Coalition, to discuss their vital advocacy for meaningful investment in Texas public schools. Following that, I’ll shift gears for a 1:1 with our Interim Talent Strategy Officer, Denisha Presley. I’ll then head over to the April Chamber Education & Workforce Council Meeting, which is focusing on a big goal: aligning our courses and certifications with high-need business skills to support the Central Texas workforce.

The afternoon will be busy as I join a Governance Planning Meeting, followed by another milestone refinement session—this time with the Academics team. I’ll be finishing the day at the Austin ISD Performing Arts Center (PAC) for the Latino Academic Achievement Awards! It’s a wonderful time to celebrate our incredible students, community members, and Dual Language Seal of Biliteracy graduates.

Thursday, Apr 16, 2026

Thursday starts with an internal budget work session alongside senior leadership. After lunch, I’ll be joining the TEA Superintendent Call to get the latest updates from the state level. I’m especially excited to end the day back at the PAC for the AVID Cording Ceremony and Celebration; I’ll be sharing a few remarks and celebrating the hard work of these outstanding scholars.

Friday, Apr 17, 2026

I’m finishing the week with my check-in meeting with Chief of Staff La Kesha Drinks. From there, I’ll meet with my direct reports to debrief the week and plan for what’s coming next. In the afternoon, I’ll connect with our principals for our regular weekly update. I’ll close out the week with a check-in with Dr. Angel Vales, Special Assistant.

Recognize our amazing staff each month by submitting a RAVE!

Follow me on Instagram @matias_aisd. #StrongSchoolsStrongerAustin

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