TEA Conservator Announces Departure from Socorro ISD

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Texas Education Agency Conservator Michael Hinojosa announced Wednesday that he plans to step away from the Socorro Independent School District in approximately two months, signaling what could be the final phase of state oversight. Hinojosa told trustees the district must complete two key initiatives - improving customer service and finalizing the budget - before the conservatorship can conclude.

Why it matters

The TEA appointed Hinojosa and fellow conservator Andrew Kim in 2024 to help stabilize the Socorro ISD following governance issues, financial concerns, and prior academic compliance problems. Their role has been to guide leadership, improve operations, and ensure long-term accountability. Hinojosa's planned exit suggests the district is nearing the end of TEA oversight, though final approval will depend on whether trustees successfully complete the remaining objectives.

The details

According to Hinojosa, SISD must complete two key initiatives before the conservatorship can conclude: improving customer service and finalizing the district's budget. 'You don't have to boil the ocean—you have to finish two projects: customer service and budget,' he said during the meeting. The focus on customer service reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen communication and trust between the district, staff, students, and the broader community. Meanwhile, budget completion remains critical as SISD continues to address past financial challenges and ensure long-term stability.

• Hinojosa announced his planned departure during a Socorro ISD School Board meeting on April 16, 2026.
• Hinojosa stated he will be leaving the district in approximately two months.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Socorro ISD School Board must successfully complete the remaining objectives of improving customer service and finalizing the district's budget in the next two months in order for the TEA conservatorship to conclude.