During a recent board meeting, McKinney Independent School District (MISD) officials presented the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST) for the 2022-2023 school year, revealing a perfect score of 100%. Dennis Womack, the assistant superintendent of business operations, highlighted that this marks the 22nd year of the FIRST rating, which evaluates school districts on financial transparency and operational efficiency.

Womack detailed the indicators used to assess the district's financial health, confirming that MISD met all criteria, including timely financial audits and maintaining a positive net position. The results are publicly accessible on the Texas Education Agency's website, allowing taxpayers to review the district's financial performance.

In addition to the FIRST presentation, the board addressed several items on the consent agenda, including budget amendments and various requests for proposals (RFPs). Notably, RFP 2024-08631 for instructional and extracurricular services was discussed, with board member Chad Green advocating for the removal of Scholastic from the proposal, citing concerns over transparency regarding materials presented on campus.

The board also deliberated on extending graphic ribbon advertisements at the MISD multipurpose stadium. While some members expressed concerns about the timing of such expenditures amid a $22 million deficit, Superintendent Pratt clarified that funding would come from advertising revenues, not from the district's general budget. Ultimately, the board voted in favor of the graphic extensions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a high standard for events held at the stadium.

The meeting concluded with the adoption of the 2024 certified tax roll, reflecting a decrease in overall taxes, which was approved unanimously by the board.