Hobbs, Arizona Democratic leaders call for accountability in Isaac School District budget crisis

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs is calling for officials to take accountability for the Isaac School District’s budget crisis.

Hobbs released a joint statement on Friday with the Democratic leaders of the Arizona House and Senate.

Last month, the district was placed under state receivership as it faced a massive budget shortfall.

That left county and state officials scrambling to figure out how to float the district money in order to pay its teachers and continue operations.

This week, the Tolleson Union High School District bailed Isaac out by purchasing some of its property for $25 million. That meant the Phoenix district wouldn’t have to close its schools, which are attended by 5,000 students.

In her statement, Hobbs said it’s now time for accountability. She fully supports the attorney general’s investigation into the matter and is calling for school board leadership to resign.

"Arizonans expect their elected officials to be strong stewards of taxpayer dollars and to deliver critical services without chaos and confusion," Hobbs said. "It is clear to us that the board leadership has failed in both those tasks."

Hobbs said it’s unacceptable that the district was ever put in this position.