Grama Sport ISD outlines budget updates and House Bill 2 impact on school finance

In a recent meeting of the Brazosport Independent School District (BISD) Board, significant discussions centered around the district's financial outlook and upcoming legislative changes that could impact school funding. The meeting, held on July 14, 2025, provided a comprehensive update on the current fiscal year budget and projections for the next year.

One of the key highlights was the updated budget report, which revealed a projected deficit of $5.7 million for the current fiscal year, a notable improvement from the earlier forecast of an $11.7 million deficit. This positive shift is attributed to higher-than-expected revenues from Chapter 313, which are now anticipated to reach approximately $12.5 million, significantly exceeding initial estimates. However, the district is facing challenges with average daily attendance (ADA), which currently stands at 9,985—101 students below projections. This decline in ADA is expected to continue affecting funding.

The board also discussed recent legislative developments, particularly House Bill 2, which proposes changes to education finance, including a modest increase in the basic allotment per student and the introduction of a new teacher retention allotment. This new funding aims to support districts in retaining experienced teachers, with varying amounts based on years of service and district size. However, concerns were raised about the bill not covering payroll taxes, which could lead to additional costs for the district.

In terms of property values, preliminary estimates from the Brazoria County Appraisal District indicate a slight increase, but the projected maintenance and operations tax rate is expected to decrease, resulting in lower tax collections. The board is actively exploring potential budget reductions and evaluating staffing needs to address the financial challenges ahead.

Additionally, the meeting included updates on employee benefits and compensation planning for the upcoming school year. The district is working to finalize a compensation plan that aligns with market standards while considering the implications of legislative changes.

As the board continues to navigate these financial complexities, they remain committed to ensuring that the district can provide quality education and support for its students and staff. The next steps will involve further refining budget projections and preparing for the upcoming school year, with ongoing communication to keep the community informed.