The system, also known as Texas Schools FIRST, revealed a positive financial responsibility report to the board as well as members of the public at the district’s regular board meeting Oct. 30.
The meeting also featured public comments—both for and against—regarding the upcoming bond propositions on November ballots.
What happened
The Texas Schools FIRST program, established by the state Legislature in 1999 and amended under House Bill 5 of the 83rd Texas Legislature, is a financial accountability system for measuring the fiscal responsibility of Texas school districts.
This latest rating signifies that the district excelled in the evaluation, meeting all critical indicators, resulting in a 98-point score. It marks the 20th consecutive year the district has done so, according to district officials.
Quote of note
"Katy ISD has grown exponentially since the inception of the Texas Schools FIRST rating. To consistently earn a 'Superior Achievement' rating every year while experiencing tremendous growth across the district is something we are especially proud of,” district Chief Financial Officer Christopher J. Smith said in a statement.
What’s next
Four bond propositions are currently on the ballot during the early voting period, as well as on Election Day, Nov. 7. They are as follows:
- Proposition A: $722.99 million for new schools
- Proposition B: $83.57 million for technology
- Proposition C: $4.2 million for renovations
- Proposition D: $29.88 million for stadium repairs
