Texas Charter Superintendents' High Salaries Mask Troubling Academic Performance

Charter Superintendents' High Salaries Mask Low-Performing Districts Three charter school superintendents in Texas are among the highest paid in the state, despite overseeing districts with some of the lowest performance ratings. Newly released records reveal that these superintendents have been underreporting their compensation, sparking concerns about accountability and transparency. According to documents obtained by ProPublica and The Texas Tribune, the three superintendents - Michael Hannon, David Morales, and Julie Goodman - received a combined total of over $1 million in salary and benefits last year. Their districts, meanwhile, have struggled with failing or near-failing performance ratings in recent years. "We're talking about millions of dollars being spent on salaries while students are not getting the education they deserve," said State Rep. Gina Hinojosa (D-Austin), who has been critical of charter schools' lack of transparency. "It's unacceptable that we're seeing this kind of mismanagement." The districts in question - Dallas Can! Academy, Dallas Charter Prep, and YES Prep Public Schools - have all received significant funding from the state and federal governments. However, their performance ratings have been consistently low, with some schools failing to meet basic standards for reading and math. Underreporting compensation is a serious issue in Texas charter schools. In 2020, an investigation by ProPublica found that many charter school leaders were hiding their true salaries behind complex financial arrangements. This practice has raised concerns about accountability and transparency in the state's education system. "It's not just about the money; it's about the lack of trust," said Dr. Kathy Miller, a longtime educator and advocate for public schools. "When you have superintendents making over $200,000 while their students are struggling to read and write, it sends a message that we don't value our children's education." The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has been aware of the underreporting issue but has not taken decisive action. In response to questions from ProPublica and The Texas Tribune, TEA spokespersons said they were "looking into" the matter. As the school year draws to a close, one district - Dallas Can! Academy - is at risk of closure due to its consistently poor performance ratings. If closed, it would be the first charter school in Texas to face such action. The controversy surrounding these superintendents' salaries and their districts' performance raises important questions about accountability and transparency in education. As policymakers and educators grapple with these issues, one thing is clear: the status quo is no longer acceptable. Background: Charter schools are public schools that operate independently of traditional school districts. They receive funding from the state and federal governments but often have more flexibility in terms of curriculum and management. However, this autonomy can also lead to a lack of accountability and transparency. Additional Perspectives: Some argue that charter schools provide a vital alternative for students who may not thrive in traditional public schools. Others contend that the lack of transparency and accountability is a symptom of a larger problem - the erosion of public trust in institutions. Current Status: The TEA has announced plans to review its policies on charter school oversight and accountability. Meanwhile, lawmakers are considering legislation aimed at increasing transparency and reducing waste in Texas education. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the stakes are high for students, parents, and taxpayers alike. It's time for policymakers and educators to come together and find solutions that prioritize student success above all else. *Reporting by Propublica.*