As the Houston ISD School Board prepares for the upcoming budget season, they face the crucial task of approving the HISD budget for next year. With school budgets under strain across Texas, tough decisions are ahead. To guide their process, we recommend focusing on these key principles:
- Student Outcome-Based Financing: The budget should align with the District’s student outcome goals, showing how resource allocation supports these targets.
- Equitable Resourcing: Prioritize equitable resource distribution, focusing on students with the greatest needs. Campuses whose budgets are not centrally administered should be based on per-student allocation, with extra support for high-need groups, while central office resources aim to close achievement gaps.
- Transparent Budget Processes: Ensure transparency and public accountability by sharing the proposed budget with the Board and public for feedback before finalizing campus budgets. Financial documents should be regularly, and timely posted online.
- Long-Term Financial Planning: Develop a balanced annual budget each year, maintaining three months of operating expenses in the fund balance. Board presentations should include a five-year financial forecast.
- Efficient and Accurate Practices: Regularly review budgeting practices for accuracy and efficiency. Adjust resources for annual fallout, and conduct an external audit every five years to implement necessary improvements.