School Board approves $4,095 pre-K tuition and renews insurance policies

In a recent special meeting held on July 14, 2025, the Dickinson Independent School District (DISD) Board of Trustees made several key decisions that will directly impact the community and its educational landscape.

One of the most significant outcomes was the approval of the local student welfare and wellness policy update, which aims to enhance the health and well-being of students. This update is expected to improve the district's rating by over 20 points, reflecting a commitment to addressing the needs of students more effectively.

Additionally, the board discussed the tuition rate for pre-kindergarten programs. Superintendent Kelly recommended maintaining the tuition at $4,095 per student for the 2025-2026 school year, the same rate as the previous year. This decision comes in light of recent legislative changes that expanded eligibility for pre-kindergarten but did not include all staff members, necessitating the continuation of paid tuition for some families.

The board also reviewed the district's property and casualty insurance policies. Good news was shared regarding a decrease in overall premiums for the upcoming year, attributed to improvements in the property and windstorm insurance market. While the automobile and bus insurance premiums increased due to the addition of new vehicles, the overall reduction in property insurance costs is a positive development for the district's budget.

These decisions reflect the board's ongoing efforts to enhance educational services and manage resources effectively, ensuring that the needs of students and staff are met while maintaining fiscal responsibility. As the district moves forward, these updates will play a crucial role in shaping the educational environment for the community.