Katy ISD outlines $3.6 million budget for teacher salaries and fixed costs

Katy Independent School District (Katy ISD) is poised to implement significant changes to its budget, focusing on teacher salaries and essential operational costs, as discussed in the Board Work Study Meeting on June 16, 2025. The proposed budget outlines a potential increase in teacher salaries, with a 1.3% raise estimated to cost approximately $3.6 million. This increase is part of a broader strategy to enhance compensation for educators, particularly for those in their first two years of service, who will receive a $2,500 raise funded locally until state reimbursement kicks in.

The meeting highlighted the implications of House Bill 2, which restricts salary increases for administrators, ensuring that funds are directed towards teachers and support staff. The district anticipates that the overall cost of benefits associated with these salary increases will reach around $3.2 million, emphasizing the financial challenges posed by rising operational costs, including health insurance and appraisal district fees.

In addition to salary discussions, the board addressed the rising costs of fixed expenses, which are projected to increase by $500,000 due to higher appraisal amounts in Harris, Fort Bend, and Waller Counties. This increase adds pressure to the district's budget, which already faces challenges from inflation and other fixed costs.

The meeting also touched on the importance of meaningful raises for various support staff, including counselors, librarians, and bus drivers, with a proposed budget gap of $600,000 to achieve a 3% raise across the board. The board acknowledged the need for these raises to maintain staff morale and retention in a competitive job market.

Looking ahead, the district is preparing for the implementation of new programs, including an early learning initiative that will allow teachers with pre-kindergarten children to enroll them in district programs. This initiative aims to support educators while addressing space concerns in a rapidly growing district.

As Katy ISD navigates these financial complexities, the board remains committed to prioritizing teacher compensation and operational sustainability, ensuring that the district can continue to provide quality education to its students. The next steps will involve finalizing the budget and addressing the ongoing challenges posed by rising costs and legislative constraints.