AISD Superintendent to Earn Twice the Governor’s Salary

The Austin Independent School District (AISD) has finalized the appointment of Stephanie Elizalde as its new superintendent. Approved on August 11, 2020, Elizalde’s contract includes a base salary of $325,000, supplemented by a $750 monthly car allowance, bringing her total annual compensation to $334,000 (more than double the governor’s salary of $153,750).

Contract Details

Elizalde’s contract runs from September 1, 2021, to August 31, 2023. It also includes a $15,000 yearly contribution to a retirement account in her name. She replaces former superintendent Paul Cruz, who transitioned to a role at the University of Texas as a professor in its superintendency program. Cruz’s last reported base salary was $310,958.

The decision to hire Elizalde came after a vote by AISD trustees, with eight in favor and one abstention. This followed her announcement as the sole finalist for the position out of 64 applicants.

Elizalde, 55, brings extensive experience to the role. She previously served as Chief of Schools for Dallas ISD and has held positions as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, director, and assistant superintendent. Speaking after her appointment, Elizalde expressed both excitement and humility, saying, “I know there are big shoes to fill and there are huge expectations, and I wouldn’t want to work for a board that didn’t expect excellence.”

Highlights of Elizalde’s Contract:

  • $325,000 base salary.
  • $750 monthly car allowance.
  • $15,000 annual retirement contribution.

Controversy Over the Hiring Process

Nicole Conley, AISD’s chief operations officer, announced her resignation after being passed over for the role. Conley, a key figure in statewide school finance reform and district consolidation planning, expressed disappointment, stating trustees did not grant her an interview.

The AISD board also voted to delay the first day of school until September 8, offering virtual learning for the first four weeks.

In a letter to staff and parents, trustees praised Elizalde as “the right leader at the right time for Austin ISD,” highlighting her expertise in academics and dedication to equity in education.