Katy school district prepares for budget adjustments post Texas legislative session

The Katy Independent School District (Katy ISD) Board Work Study Meeting on June 16, 2025, focused on the upcoming budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, highlighting significant changes in state funding and its implications for local schools. The meeting underscored the district's timeline for budget adoption, which is set for August, allowing for further refinement based on recent legislative developments.

Key discussions centered around House Bill 2, which allocated $8.5 billion for public education, a notable increase from previous years. This funding aims to address various priorities, including teacher compensation, special education, and school safety. The board noted that while the funding is substantial, it reflects two legislative sessions' worth of financial needs, as previous allocations had not been fully realized.

A significant portion of the new funding is earmarked for teacher salaries, with an estimated $29 million designated for increases. However, the distribution of these funds has raised concerns, particularly regarding the exclusion of new teachers with less than three years of experience from receiving salary boosts. The board emphasized the importance of attracting and retaining qualified educators, especially in a competitive job market.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the introduction of a new funding mechanism based on student enrollment rather than average daily attendance, which could impact the district's financial planning. The board expressed caution about this change, noting potential challenges in accurately predicting funding based on fluctuating enrollment numbers throughout the school year.

Other topics included modest increases in the basic allotment for schools and enhancements to the school safety allotment. The board also discussed the need for clarity on special education funding reforms, which are set to take effect in the 2026-2027 school year.

In conclusion, the Katy ISD Board's discussions reflect a proactive approach to navigating the complexities of state funding and its implications for local education. As the district prepares for its budget adoption in August, the board will continue to monitor legislative developments and their impact on educational resources and staffing.