Concerns Over Socorro ISD’s Hiring Practices
EL PASO, TX. – At Tuesday’s SocorroISD board meeting, parents and taxpayers toldABC-7 they were un-happy with hiring practices at the district.
ABC-7 sat down with the superintendent to get her reaction. Parents are still upset about the state of the district. They say morale is at an all time low. But the superintendent says time will show all of her moves were for the best. But that’snota sentiment shared by everyone.
“Many employees are working in fear,” saidJoe Sarabia. Hesays he’s fed-up with Socorro ISD. One of his main concerns is Doctor Sylvia Atkinson’s hiring practices.From 2004 until 2007, there were 6 assistant superintendents and several executive directors. Now, there are nine assistant superintendents. Four of whom originally worked as assistant superintendents.
At least eight administrators have left SocorroISD all-together for other local districts.Sarabia said,”they were people that cared about the district. They weren’t just loyal to one superintendent. They were serving the kids and that’s key. And that no longer happens.” Another issue involves the marital status of some employees and their supervisors. Superintendent Atkinson confirms the Athletics Director is married to an assistant coach, which could pose a conflict during evaluation or promotions.”
“In the event there’s a head coach position available, he wouldn’t even be considered because she is the athletic director,” Atkinson said. TheSISD police task force commander is also married to anSISD police officer, something that doesn’t sit well with oneboard member. “I’m not real comfortable with the fact that they’re working in the same department,” saidCraig Patton.But board member Barbara Perez-Pena doesn’t see a problem with inter-district relationships, “I don’t think there’s much of an issue with ethics. If protocol has been followed,I don’t see a problem.”
ABC-7spoke to a lawyer for a Texas Teacher’s Association whosaid there is no law against employees being married and working together. Doctor Atkinson’s performance will be evaluated in January, while the entire district’s performance will be evaluated in may.
