CyFair School District addresses $23M deficit amid legislative funding challenges

The Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District (CFISD) held a regular board meeting on March 3, 2025, where key discussions centered around the district's budget and upcoming legislative measures impacting education funding. The meeting highlighted the pressing financial challenges faced by the district and the importance of state funding to address these issues.

The board began by discussing House Bill 2 (HB 2), which proposes significant changes to education funding, including a cap of $50 million per year for certain programs and an additional $615 million annually for special education through an intensity-based funding formula. The bill also introduces a fine arts and property insurance allotment, acknowledging the statewide issue of property insurance costs.

A critical point of discussion was the requirement for school districts to hire certified teachers for foundational courses, with a prohibition on using district innovation plans to bypass certification requirements. The bill also establishes funding for teacher residency and intern programs, aimed at enhancing teacher quality.

The board emphasized the correlation between the district's budget and state funding measures, with board members expressing concerns about the district's financial health. A deficit of $77 million was reported, which had been reduced to $23 million through budget cuts and financial management efforts. However, the reliance on one-time revenue sources, such as disaster pennies, raises concerns about sustainability.

Board members highlighted the importance of filling unfilled positions, which represent an estimated $20 million in budgetary concerns. They stressed that these positions are essential for achieving academic goals and cannot be overlooked in budget planning.

The discussion also touched on the need for stability in funding formulas, particularly regarding the basic allotment and special education funding. Board members expressed the urgency of advocating for legislative support to secure ongoing funding that would allow the district to plan for future growth and operational needs.

In conclusion, the CFISD board meeting underscored the district's financial challenges and the critical role of state funding in addressing these issues. The board remains committed to advocating for legislative measures that will provide the necessary resources to support the educational needs of the community. The next steps include monitoring the progress of HB 2 and other relevant legislation as they move through the House Public Education Committee.