Brazosport ISD outlines budget deficits and legislative priorities for funding relief

The Brazosport Independent School District (BISD) Board convened on July 14, 2025, to discuss critical financial updates and future budget planning, highlighting significant challenges and strategies aimed at maintaining educational quality amid fiscal constraints.

Chief Financial Officer Lou Cantino presented an overview of the 2025 budget, revealing a projected deficit of $11.7 million for the current fiscal year, primarily driven by a decline in student enrollment and rising operational costs. The district has seen a decrease of 157 students, contributing to a projected ending fund balance of $32 million, which falls short of the Texas Education Agency's recommended optimal balance of $38 million.

Cantino emphasized the need for fiscal responsibility, outlining guiding principles that prioritize campus-based positions and evaluate district-level programs for potential reductions. The board is also grappling with inflationary pressures, which have led to a 24% increase in safety and security expenses and a 13% rise in teacher salaries. Notably, the basic allotment—the state funding provided per student—has not increased in six years, despite a reported inflation rate of 14.5%.

To address these financial challenges, BISD is advocating for several legislative priorities, including an increase in the basic allotment, a shift to enrollment-based funding, and enhanced support for special education and school safety. The district is also pushing for funding to support teacher apprenticeship programs to combat the ongoing teacher shortage.

Looking ahead, the board is set to engage in a comprehensive budget development process, with plans to adopt the budget and tax rate by August 2025. Regular updates will be provided to ensure transparency and community involvement in the budgeting process.

As the district navigates these financial hurdles, the board's commitment to maintaining quality education and addressing the needs of its students remains a top priority, underscoring the importance of community support and legislative action in shaping the future of education in Brazosport.