School funding, special education services and teacher retention are among the issues Pearland ISD wants state lawmakers to address during the 2027 Texas Legislature, following board approval of the district’s priorities at its Nov. 10 meeting.
A closer look
Ahead of the legislative session, which begins Jan. 12, the district developed eight priorities based on its needs, previous priorities and input from advocacy organizations and stakeholders, district documents show.
Some of the priorities are:
Enrollment-based funding: Increase the basic allotment, adjust for inflation and provide additional funding for state requirements and targeted programs while reducing redundant reporting.
Special education funding: Fund services based on actual costs and expand support for early intervention, mental health services and specialized staff.
Student transportation funding: Update funding to reflect operating costs and provide additional support for hazardous routes and the required bus seatbelt mandate.
Teacher retention: Support teacher training and mentoring, reduce administrative duties and increase funding for employee health coverage and retirement benefits.
Classroom technology: Establish practical screen-time guidelines, provide artificial intelligence training and strengthen protections for student data.
In their own words
During the discussion, trustee Jim Johnson suggested adding language calling for clear medical guidance from the state before lawmakers pass mandates.
Trustee Sean Murphy also suggested adding a priority addressing student discipline, saying classroom behavior and disciplinary issues can create significant disruptions to learning.
What’s next
The board may revisit the priorities at its December meeting to consider additional changes, including the suggestions raised during the discussion, district officials said.
