Rockwall ISD anticipates $13M budget deficit amid rising teacher pay challenges

Rockwall ISD is facing significant financial challenges, with a projected budget deficit of $13 million for the upcoming school year. During a recent Board of Trustees meeting, district officials highlighted the urgent need for budget reductions and strategic planning to address the ongoing fiscal crisis.

The discussion revealed that Rockwall ISD's teacher pay scale is lagging behind the average by approximately $26,100, which has contributed to high turnover rates among staff. Despite efforts to increase teacher salaries by over 15% in the past four years, the district is struggling to remain competitive, especially as inflation has risen by 22% since 2019. The board has prioritized teacher pay increases, but the lack of a significant boost in the basic allotment from the state has hindered these efforts.

Officials noted that the district has never had a formal reserve target, but an informal goal of maintaining a 30% fund balance is now at risk. Currently, the district anticipates using about $14.5 million of its reserves, which would leave it significantly below this target for the first time. The financial strain is exacerbated by the need to open new campuses and hire additional staff, further stretching the budget.

To tackle the deficit, the district is considering a multi-phase reduction strategy that aims to minimize the impact on students and staff. Proposed measures include increasing class sizes, adjusting administrative positions, and exploring non-personnel cost reductions such as raising meal prices and facility rental fees. However, officials acknowledged that these cuts may only address part of the deficit, and further action will be necessary.

Looking ahead, the district plans to present more detailed budget reduction strategies and compensation plans in upcoming meetings. With the state legislature currently holding a $24 billion surplus, there is hope for increased funding for public education, but officials remain cautious about the potential impact on Rockwall ISD's financial situation. The board emphasized the importance of defining what "fully funded" means for the district, as current funding levels do not adequately support the needs of students and staff.