Rep. Perez challenges Texas Comptroller’s performance review into EPISD

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Monday, Texas State Representative Vince Perez (D-El Paso) sent a letter to Texas Comptroller Don Huffines challenging the state's investigation of the El Paso Independent School District.

On Oct. 6, Huffines announced four Texas school districts, including EPISD, will undergo a performance review to  "ensure taxpayer funds are being spent responsibly."

In his letter, Rep. Perez argued that EPISD's administrative spending meets the Texas Education Agency's standard and the law behind the investigation was "written for tax collection."

"By the State's own measures, El Paso ISD spends a smaller share on administration than 84 other large districts, and TEA grades its finances superior," said Rep. Perez in a statement. "If spending were the test, El Paso wouldn't be on this list. The Comptroller owes El Paso families an explanation of what the test was."

Perez' letter claimed EPISD is under the state's benchmark for administrative costs. He argued that EPISD used 4.20% of its spending on administration. TEA gives large districts full credit at 4.50% or less.

Additionally, Rep. Perez said Texas Governor Greg Abbott used inaccurate numbers before asking the comptroller to investigate the district. The letter said Gov. Abbott's numbers counted students who left the district.

The letter asks Comptroller Huffines to answer eight questions within two weeks. The questions ask how EPISD was chosen for review, which revenue law the district is alleged to have broken, whether a referral to the attorney general is being considered and whether the full report will go to the Legislature and the public the same day it goes to the governor

Rep. Perez said Huffines would share findings with the Legislature and the people of Texas.

Rep. Perez is running for re-election for Texas House District 77 against Republican candidate Humberto Perez.