By Scott Thomas

There are no cuts coming to arts programs in Austin ISD, Superintendent Stephanie Elizalde said in response to recent questions. In fact, she said, they are looking to expand programs in certain areas.

“Rest assured there are NO cuts coming to our arts programs,” said Elizalde “It is unfortunate that misinformation is communicated [...] I personally excelled because of arts programs so I need no convincing of how important the arts are.”

The district budget will be finalized in June, but no cuts to fine arts are being pursued either through the administration or the Board of Trustees. Because some funding is being shifted from the district to campuses, some fine arts positions may change. Any fine arts staff who have questions about their specific position should reach out to their principal or Human Resources through Let’s Talk!

“We remain committed to making sure that AISD is a destination for all students who want top-of-the-line visual and performing arts education,” said Alan Lambert, Director of Visual and Performing Arts. 

The district is currently looking to expand programs at the middle and high school level based on student choice for the coming year. 

Visual and performing arts are available at every Austin ISD campus in the district. AISD is also home to a state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center that includes a 1,200 seat main auditorium, a 250-seat black box theater, dance studio and more. AISD was also recently designated a Best Communities for Music Education by National Association of Music Merchants.