89th TEXAS LEGISLATIVE SESSION

Due to the state’s funding formula, Beaumont ISD struggles to increase revenue, making it difficult to offer competitive salaries, retain quality educators, and keep up with rising costs. Increased funding is also essential for special education to provide individualized support, qualified staff, and necessary resources, ensuring equity and compliance with federal law. Additionally, funding full-day Pre-K is critical in a high-poverty district like BISD to close achievement gaps, boost school readiness, and support families. Investing in our schools means investing in a stronger future for students and the community.

A one-size-fits-all accountability system ignores the unique challenges faced by high-poverty, low-performing campuses. Schools moving from an F to a D should be recognized for progress, with more time and support to continue improving. A grace period is essential when changes to the accountability system occur, allowing schools time to adjust, refine instruction, gather stakeholder feedback, and plan for success. Current laws remove control from local districts, handing low-performing schools to charter operators with extra state funding. Despite these resources, these partnerships have failed. Legislation must revise harsh sanctions like school closures or state takeovers and instead provide districts with the same support and funding given to charters to help struggling schools improve.

As a Chapter 49 district, Beaumont ISD faces significant revenue loss through recapture payments to the state, limiting its ability to fund essential programs, staff, and facilities. With over 82% of students educationally disadvantaged, the withheld recapture funds are vital for providing additional resources and addressing challenges like staff recruitment, retention, and aging facilities.

On-Site Mental Health Support is crucial as federal funding has expired, forcing the district to reduce or eliminate resources for students' growing mental health needs.

Allowing law enforcement to issue citations for infractions can help schools deter substance use, minimize academic disruptions, and encourage accountability among students and parents.