 has unveiled a proposed $1.1 billion budget for the 2025–26 school year, confronting a projected $34 million deficit head-on.){kind=link}
June 12, 2025 | Fort Bend County, TX – In a bold move to support its staff and maintain district stability, the Fort Bend Independent School District (FBISD) has unveiled a proposed $1.1 billion budget for the 2025–26 school year, confronting a projected $34 million deficit head-on.
The proposed budget focuses on staff compensation, mental wellness, and operational efficiency—all while navigating the rising costs of running one of the largest school districts in Texas.
Investing in Teachers and Staff
At the heart of the proposal is a $30.7 million compensation package designed to attract and retain talent. Highlights include:
- A $1,200 one-time stipend for full-time employees ($600 for part-time)
- Two additional paid wellness days to support staff mental health
- A base salary increase for teachers, raising the starting salary to $63,000
- Mandatory raises of $2,500–$5,000 for eligible teachers
- Raises of $515 for qualifying non-instructional staff
- Hiring bonuses of up to $5,000 for high-need roles
- No changes to employee health insurance contributions, maintaining current coverage levels
“This is not just a budget—it’s a commitment to our people,” said a district spokesperson. “Our educators and staff are the backbone of the community, and this plan acknowledges that.”
Temporary Tax Adjustment Using ‘Disaster Pennies’
To help bridge the budget gap, FBISD is proposing a temporary tax rate increase—from $0.99 to $1.06 per $100 of assessed property value. This increase leverages a state provision known as “disaster pennies,” which allows school districts to raise additional revenue without a voter referendum when recovering from a disaster—in this case, Hurricane Beryl.
Importantly, due to statewide tax compression laws recently passed in Austin, most homeowners are still expected to see a net tax break, even with the rate hike.
Warning Signs for 2026–27
While the 2025–26 plan aims to stabilize the district, projections for the following school year are less optimistic. A $26.2 million deficit is already forecast for 2026–27. If unaddressed, the shortfall could force school consolidations, staff cuts, or a voter-approved tax election.
The district is proactively exploring cost-saving measures, including the potential closure of under-enrolled elementary schools, administrative reductions, and reevaluation of non-essential programs.
What’s Next
The proposed budget will be debated and likely finalized by the FBISD Board of Trustees in late June. The district is also planning public engagement opportunities to address taxpayer concerns and solicit community input.
For Fort Bend ISD, the message is clear: balancing financial responsibility with staff support is not easy—but it’s necessary.