BY DUSTIN BUTLER
Legislative approach
The big picture
RISD enrollment numbers Richardson ISD’s student population is expected to decrease by 2,000 students over the next five years.
In a Feb. 25 Texas House of Representatives Public Education hearing, Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Morath said there is no “magic number” when it comes to the basic allotment for school funding. “I would certainly encourage the legislature to put more money into public education,” Morath said. Additionally, Morath said more local factors go into school budgets than state factors. He said districts operate in three enrollment categories—those growing, flat or declining. Each category requires different budgetary practices, Morath said. Districts shifting from years of fast growth to flat growth will face budget deficits, making budgeting district-specific. Morath added school closures are more about a lack of enrollment growth, not a need for funds. “The best way to support our schools is to fund our schools,” State Rep. Ana-Maria Ramos said in an email. Ramos’ district includes Richardson. House Bill 2435, which Ramos filed, would
Gibbons said the district will not be responsible for transportation for inter-district transfer students, and nonresident students would have to reapply to the district every year. informed city staff of the change in advance. Since only about 60% of RISD is in the city limits, he said he doesn’t expect significant increases in traffic. Richardson City Manager Don Magner said district officials
Projected enrollment
40K
30K
20K
10K
RISD transfer students
0
2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027
Elementary - 108 Middle - 70 High - 84
SOURCE: RICHARDSON ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
increase the basic allotment by $2,787. Ramos said the bill ties funding to inflation to ensure schools and students are supported. State Rep. Angie Chen Button, whose district is in Richardson, did not respond to an interview request.
SOURCE: RICHARDSON ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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RICHARDSON EDITION
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