Brazosport ISD proposes legislative priorities for education funding and teacher support

Brazosport ISD is taking a bold stand on education funding and legislative priorities, urging state lawmakers to address critical issues impacting public education. During the recent board meeting, officials highlighted the urgent need for increased funding, particularly as Texas ranks among the lowest states in per-student spending, trailing the national average by over $4,000.

The district's advocacy efforts focus on several key areas, including a call for an automatic annual adjustment to the basic allotment for education funding, which currently stands at $6,160. This amount, while an improvement from previous years, fails to keep pace with inflation and the rising costs of educational necessities. Brazosport ISD argues that the basic allotment should be indexed to inflation to ensure adequate resources for schools.

Additionally, the board is pushing for a shift from funding based on average daily attendance to enrollment figures. This change would provide a more stable financial foundation for districts, as funding currently penalizes schools for student absences, despite ongoing operational costs.

Special education funding is another critical concern, with the district advocating for a revision of outdated formulas that do not reflect the true costs of educating students with disabilities. The current system has resulted in a significant funding gap, with Brazosport ISD facing a $3 million shortfall in special education funding alone.

Safety and security in schools also topped the agenda, as the district seeks increased state funding for safety initiatives. Current allocations are insufficient to cover the actual costs of maintaining safe environments for students and staff.

Brazosport ISD's legislative priorities also include opposition to the diversion of public funds to private schools, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency in public education. The board supports school choice within the public system but firmly believes that taxpayer dollars should remain in public schools.

In conclusion, the Brazosport ISD board is committed to advocating for necessary reforms in education funding, accountability, and teacher retirement systems, aiming to ensure that every student has access to a high-quality education. The board's recommendations are set to guide discussions with lawmakers as they prepare for the upcoming legislative session.