The committee was strategically composed to include a diverse range of stakeholders, encompassing principals, teachers, students, parents, custodial staff, department personnel, school board members, and community representatives. Some were nominated by board members, some were selected by campus leadership, and others volunteered to be on the committee. All are highly invested in the success of students, teachers, the district, and the community.

This situation is not unique to Uvalde CISD. The Texas Legislature has not allocated increased funding for public schools since 2019, resulting in financial challenges for numerous school districts across the state. As a response, school board trustees in various districts have been compelled to propose Voter-Approval Tax Rate Elections (VATRE) to sustain regular operations. In essence, the absence of increased funding necessitates that Texas Public Schools continue to function based on 2019 state funding levels, despite a significant rise in operating costs since that time.

Local property taxes, state funds, and federal funds fund Texas public schools. These funding sources collectively support school districts' financial stability and operational needs

Yes, a timeline has been established.

Community Budget Committee Timeline - English

Community Budget Committee Timeline - Spanish

To effectively address Uvalde CISD's challenges, both instructional and non-instructional personnel can play pivotal roles in mitigating the impact.

Most importantly, please presume positive intent and ask questions before assuming what you hear “through the grapevine” is true. Focus on the many positive things we have happening in UCISD. We will get through this together. 

Educators

Educators are encouraged to pursue additional certifications and expand their qualifications. By acquiring certifications in various subject areas, they enhance their professional development and contribute to the district's ability to adapt to evolving educational demands. To further support educators in their professional growth and adaptability, Uvalde CISD has invested in a comprehensive program designed to assist teachers in studying for certifications in their current and additional subject areas. This initiative includes free access to 240 Tutoring, a valuable resource for certification preparation. Educators are encouraged to take full advantage of this opportunity to enhance their qualifications and contribute to the district's capacity to meet evolving educational demands. If there are any questions or need further clarification, educators are welcome to contact the Human Resources department for assistance.

240 Tutoring Credit Request Form
Human Resources

Non-Instructional Staff

For non-instructional staff, remaining adaptable and open to expanded job responsibilities is essential. Opportunities for reassignment across the district may arise, and embracing these changes with a positive and flexible attitude can significantly contribute to a successful outcome. By maintaining readiness for potential shifts in duties or campus locations, staff can effectively support the district's operational needs and ensure continued service delivery.

By working collaboratively and maintaining a proactive approach, UCISD staff and educators can help navigate through these challenging times while laying the foundation for a prosperous future.

There is a possibility that some teachers may be required to relocate to different campuses. If such a need arises, teachers will be given the options to consider if there is more than one. It is crucial for educators to remain open and flexible during this process, as adaptability can help minimize the impact on both students and staff. By maintaining a cooperative and positive outlook, teachers can contribute significantly to the seamless operation of the district during these transitional times.

Given the current financial constraints and the factors previously discussed, the committee will be carefully evaluating all possible avenues for budget reduction. While it is possible that adjustments may need to be made to funding for extracurricular activities, the committee is dedicated to minimizing the impact on students to the greatest extent possible. Every effort will be made to ensure that essential programs remain accessible and that any changes are implemented thoughtfully and strategically.

Yes, transfer options will be available, and staff members can request to be considered for open positions in the district. They still must be approved by the receiving administrator or supervisor. You can view the latest listings in Skyward FastTrack. If you require assistance, please reach out to the HR Department.

FastTrack
Human Resources

UCISD may have to reduce the scope of summer school programming due to budget constraints; however, because summer school is largely funded through specific allocations of money, Texas public school districts are required to use it to provide supplemental programs and services to students. In contrast, the district may not have additional funds to enhance summer school (make it longer/bring in more kids), but it would still be provided for students who need it most.

As we navigate this process, staying engaged and informed is important. The district is committed to maintaining open communication with all employees, using a stakeholder engaged, transparent process, and providing updates as decisions are made. We encourage staff to focus on delivering quality education in a safe environment to all of our students, get certified if they are not, and consider seeking additional valuable certifications in areas of need in the district. Additionally, the district is exploring all possible options to minimize the impact on students, staff, and educational resources. We appreciate your dedication and patience during this time.

Texas law only authorizes a state takeover once a district demonstrates an inability to improve student achievement over time at low-performing campuses. The state generally works with districts in financial jeopardy to make decisions to prevent the district from going bankrupt. It is highly uncommon for school districts to go bankrupt. UCISD is making proactive decisions to ensure the future of the district and the education of Uvalde children for many generations.

Implementing budget cuts in UCISD while minimizing the impact on students will be challenging, but it is possible with strategic planning. Here are some of the approaches we are utilizing:

1. We are Prioritizing Core Educational Services by ensuring that essential academic programs and services that directly impact student learning and development are preserved. This includes retaining essential teaching staff and keeping class sizes within reason.

2. We are Increasing Efficiency by identifying areas where resources are being underutilized and where processes can be streamlined to save costs without affecting students. This has involved consolidating administrative roles, optimizing transportation routes, and reducing energy usage.

3. We are Establishing Partnerships and collaborating with local, state, national, and global businesses and organizations to support extracurricular activities, programs, and other student services that the district would otherwise be unable to provide.

4. We are Focusing on Professional Development by investing in our educators to improve instructional strategies and outcomes, ensuring a high-quality education for our students despite financial constraints.

5. We are Engaging Stakeholders through the budget committee process by involving students, parents, principals, teachers, and the community in decision-making. 

6. We are Seeking Alternative Funding through grants and alternative funding sources to support specific programs and initiatives that may otherwise face cuts.

7. We are Evaluating and Adjusting Programs by assessing the effectiveness of programs and modifying those that are not meeting objectives, redirecting resources to more impactful areas.

By carefully utilizing these strategies, the district will address budget cuts while maintaining a high standard of student education.

Yes, auxiliary staff will still work the number of days they normally work regardless of the calendar adopted. Any additional days off with pay must be board-approved.

The board approves the budget at the fund and function level and can decide to allocate more or less money from one year to the next, depending on the district's goals.

The district is exploring opportunities with current and possible future partners where there may be some opportunities for student activities to be available on days when school is closed for students and staff is working, however, the district would not be the entity providing child care.

In either March or April 2025.

No, while it is best to do so, there are many reasons a school board may not adopt a balanced budget.

If the district is forced to reduce staff, people will be notified as quickly as possible throughout April, May, and June. Professional staff on Chapter 21 contracts would be notified no later than the tenth day before this school year's last day of instruction. The district's goal is to reduce the staffing budget through attrition, meaning when a staff member currently employed by the district leaves, a new staff member to the district will not be hired unless absolutely necessary.