Hays CISD receives 'superior' rating for School Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas report

The Hays CISD board of trustees held the first hearing of the district’s School Financial Integrity and Rating System of Texas report Nov. 14. Every district in the state must prepare an annual financial management report to ensure public schools "are held accountable for the quality of their financial management practices," according to the Texas Education Agency.

The School FIRST ratings were implemented in 1999 in response to Senate Bill 875 of the 76th Texas Legislature in 1999.

HCISD received an A-rating for "superior achievement," according to the 2022 report for fiscal year 2020-21. Out of 100 possible points, HCISD earned 92.

"The 'A-Superior' rating is the state's highest, demonstrating the quality of Hays CISD's financial management and report system. The Schools FIRST accountability rating ensures Texas school districts are accountable not only for student learning, but also for achieving these results cost effectively and efficiently," the report read.

The TEA released preliminary ratings during the summer; districts must then fill out and complete a report by a set deadline.

Assessed criteria include questions about the general fund, operating expenditures and investments as well as budget variances, debt and enrollment relative to staff.

The report also requires a review of reimbursements received by the superintendent and board of trustees during the fiscal year.