Seguin ISD hears large budget shortfall, lawmakers' proposals could shape raises and tax vote timing

Seguin Independent School District finance staff told trustees the district faces a structural shortfall heading into 2025–26 and that any pay increases for staff will depend heavily on how the Texas Legislature finalizes school finance bills and whether the district pursues a tax ratification election (TRE/VADER).

Chief financial information and budget presentation: Finance staff (identified in the meeting as "Bridal") presented scenarios that show an estimated $2.8 million deficit if the district adopts a budget similar to the current year without additional revenue or reductions. Under House Bill 2 as drafted during the session, Seguin ISD’s preliminary estimate of additional revenue for 2025–26 was about $4.23 million; the Senate version at the time of the presentation projected about $2.9 million. The presentation showed a range of possible compensation strategies: 3% across-the-board, 4% across-the-board, and higher blends that target teachers or hourly staff differently. The administration recommended a cautious approach because the Legislature had not finished action and TEA had not finalized compressed tax-rate…