Edgewood ISD superintendent retires before new school board members take office

The unexpected retirement of Eduardo Hernandez, superintendent of Edgewood Independent School District (Edgewood ISD) for nearly a decade, has cast a spotlight on the Westside district and its future. Hernandez’s decision to step down, approved with a 6-1 vote by the school board on Wednesday, arrives just a week after a significant shift in the board's composition following the November midterm elections. This timing, coupled with questions surrounding his exit package, underscores a period of transition and potential change for Edgewood ISD, a district serving a predominantly economically disadvantaged population.

Hernandez's annual salary was $335,193, supplemented by a $26,815 retirement plan and eligibility for performance-based bonuses tied to student academic outcomes. The exact terms of his separation agreement remain undisclosed, with Board President James Hernandez stating the details won't be released until the end of the week. This secrecy has fueled community concerns and demands for transparency, particularly given the district’s ongoing financial challenges and academic struggles.

Several community members and parents voiced their objections at the board meeting, questioning why Hernandez would be allowed to leave mid-contract—a situation that often results in penalties for educators—and urging the current board to delay any agreement until the newly elected trustees are sworn in on November 17th. This sentiment reflects a broader frustration within the community regarding the district’s leadership and direction. While some praised Hernandez’s contributions, others pointed to the district's recent D rating from the state and persistent enrollment decline as evidence of shortcomings. As Joseph Guerra, a former board member, stated, “He is and was a superintendent in person that Edgewood needed.” However, he also expressed concern about the district’s ability to find a suitable replacement and potential future intervention from the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

A Superintendent's Journey: From Duncanville to Edgewood

Hernandez's tenure at Edgewood ISD began in 2018, following a period of turmoil. He arrived after two years under TEA control, replacing former Superintendent Emilio Castro who resigned amidst harassment allegations. Hernandez’s initial task was to guide the district back to local control, a significant achievement that restored community governance. Prior to Edgewood, he served as the chief academic officer for Duncanville ISD, a larger, suburban district in the Dallas area. This experience brought a different perspective to the challenges faced by Edgewood, a district serving a predominantly Hispanic and economically disadvantaged student population.

During his leadership, Hernandez championed several initiatives aimed at improving student outcomes and attracting young families to the Westside. These included early adoption of school choice strategies, such as opening enrollment boundaries in 2019 and partnering with Pre-K 4 SA. He also expanded vital student programs like fine arts, early college high school, and career and technical education, demonstrating a commitment to providing diverse learning opportunities for Edgewood students. The creation of a scholarship fund to assist graduates with college expenses further underscored his dedication to student success.

The Current Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities

Edgewood ISD faces significant headwinds. The district serves approximately 7,600 students across 21 schools, with nearly 94% qualifying as economically disadvantaged. Like many districts in San Antonio, Edgewood has experienced years of enrollment decline and financial strain, currently facing a $3.7 million budget deficit. The recent D rating from the state underscores the urgent need for academic improvement. The decision to hand control of one campus to Third Future Schools was a strategic move to avert potential TEA intervention, highlighting the district's precarious position.

The November elections brought a wave of change to the Edgewood ISD school board. Outgoing board members James Hernandez, Frank Espinosa, and Richard Santoyo were defeated by candidates promising increased transparency and community engagement. The new board, including Michael Valdez (the sole returning member), Elias Hernandez, Dora Maldonado, and Dorothy Borjas, represent a coalition of parents and community members who have long criticized the district’s administration. Valdez's dissenting vote against Hernandez’s retirement agreement signals a shift in priorities and a potential reevaluation of district policies.

The TEA Factor: A History of Intervention

Edgewood ISD’s history with the TEA is complex. The district's previous period under state control highlights the challenges it has faced and the importance of local governance. The TEA's involvement underscores the need for continuous improvement and accountability. The potential for future TEA intervention remains a concern, particularly given the district's recent D rating and ongoing financial struggles. The transition back to local control was a hard-won victory, and maintaining that autonomy will require sustained effort from the new board and administration.

What's Next for Edgewood ISD?

The immediate focus for the new school board will be to select a new superintendent. The search process should prioritize candidates with a demonstrated track record of improving academic outcomes in economically disadvantaged communities and a commitment to transparency and community engagement. The board must also address the district’s financial challenges and develop a sustainable budget that supports student learning. The ongoing partnership with Third Future Schools will be closely monitored for its impact on student achievement.

Eric's Take

The departure of Superintendent Hernandez marks a pivotal moment for Edgewood ISD. While he oversaw important transitions and initiatives, the district’s persistent academic struggles and financial challenges demand a renewed focus on student outcomes and community collaboration. The new board’s commitment to transparency offers a promising opportunity to rebuild trust and engage the community in shaping the district’s future. However, the challenges are significant. The district's economic realities, coupled with the ongoing debate surrounding education funding at the state level, will require creative solutions and unwavering dedication from all stakeholders.

It's crucial for residents to remain actively involved in the district's decision-making processes, attending board meetings and voicing their concerns. The community should also pay close attention to the selection of the next superintendent and hold them accountable for achieving measurable improvements in student performance. The future of Edgewood ISD depends on a collaborative effort between the board, administration, teachers, parents, and the broader community. As we move forward, it’s imperative to remember that investing in education is an investment in the future of our city and our children.