Wichita Falls School Board Approves Reduced Tax Rate and Bilingual Curriculum Renewal

In a recent meeting of the Wichita Falls Independent School District (WFISD) Board of Trustees, members gathered to address key financial decisions and curriculum updates that will shape the educational landscape for the upcoming school year. The atmosphere was one of collaboration and focus as board members moved through the agenda with efficiency.

The meeting kicked off with the approval of the consent agenda, which passed unanimously with a 6-0 vote. This initial step set a positive tone for the discussions that followed. A significant highlight was the board's decision to set the maintenance and operations tax rate at 0.6822 per $100 valuation, alongside a debt service tax rate of 0.393087 for the 2025 tax year. This adjustment results in a total proposed tax rate of 1.075287 for the 2025-2026 school year, a decrease from the previous rate of 1.11, reflecting a reduction of 3.86 cents. Board members emphasized this reduction, aiming to clarify any misconceptions about tax increases.

Following the tax discussions, the board approved the renewal of a bilingual grammar curriculum license for $2,000. This curriculum, designed specifically for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, has been in use since 2022 and is crucial for enhancing literacy and grammar skills in this demographic. The renewal was met with unanimous support, showcasing the board's commitment to inclusive education.

Additionally, the board approved the purchase of a recording system for the WFISD Police Department, amounting to $25,000. This investment underscores the district's focus on safety and security within its schools, ensuring that the police department is equipped to effectively serve the community.

As the meeting concluded, the board's decisions reflected a proactive approach to managing resources and enhancing educational offerings. With these measures in place, WFISD is poised to foster a supportive and effective learning environment for all students in the coming year.