Austin ISD trustees welcome new Superintendent Stephanie Elizalde at first board meeting

New Austin ISD Superintendent Stephanie Elizalde has been on the job for 13 days, and board of trustees President Geronimo Rodriguez said she has not had time to rest while preparing for the coming school year.

During her first board meeting Aug. 24, Rodriguez said that Elizalde’s dedication to the job has been on display since before she was hired, taking community meetings to get to know the district through the month.

“She has demonstrated her firm commitment to building relationships with our community, while listening to gain a deeper understanding of our strengths challenges opportunities as a district has shown that she is the right person at the right time,” he said.

Rodriguez said she has dove into the district’s reopening process and has continued discussions on how to get students and teachers prepared for virtual learning and ensure district safety.

Trustee Ann Teich said she appreciated Elizalde reaching out to the community and engaging with local stakeholders so quickly into her career with the district.

“It is very exciting to have kind of some new energy, and we are excited about your leadership and already have seen such amazing work,” trustee Amber Elenz said. “I have to say, I feel like you have been here much longer than two weeks and we look forward to really embracing 2020-21 with new [life].”