Big decisions made in 2016

• Tax ratification election In June, the FISD board of trustees called for a tax ratification election to raise the school district’s tax rate by 13 cents. The increase would have generated $30.6 million, the amount the district stands to lose with the elimination of a special fund known as Additional State Aid for Tax Relief this year. However, Frisco voters rejected the measure in August, forcing the district to take a closer look at its finances for the next school year.
• Delaying the opening of new schools In October, the FISD board of trustees delayed until 2018 the opening of four new schools that were scheduled to open in August 2017. This was a result of Frisco voters rejecting the school district’s proposed tax increase.

Top issues for 2017

• Elimination of ASATR Additional State Aid for Tax Reduction funds will be eliminated in September, from which FISD derives about 10 percent of its annual revenue. At least two representatives of the Texas House of Representatives introduced bills that would extend ASATR funding by either one year or nine years.
• FISD 2017-18 budget As the elimination of the ASATR fund approaches, FISD is preparing well in advance to develop a reduced budget for the 2017-18 school year with the help of the Frisco community. In January, FISD will review budget trade-offs and evaluate budget recommendations. After examining the budget recommendations, the district will develop a strategic plan for the 2017-18 budget.

A question for Jeremy Lyon, Frisco ISD superintendent

What is in store for Frisco ISD in 2017?

Now is a critical time for the future of Frisco ISD. We must work together to find budget solutions without losing our focus on student achievement and opportunity.