IT'S A JUNGLE OUT THERE
School Finance Basics
Texas public schools are funded through a blend of local, state, and federal dollars — each playing a unique role in supporting student success.
LION'S SHARE OF THE FUNDING IS LOCAL
The breakdown of funding sources in G-PISD might surprise you—it’s not an even split in this financial jungle.
Local property taxes make up the largest portion at 75%, followed by 22.3% from state, and 2.7% from federal sources.
Due to the amount of industry within our boundaries, we have one of the strongest local tax bases in the region. However, G-PISD adopted a deficit operating budget due to underfunded state mandates, rising inflation, and changes in the way schools can get creative in protecting these local resources. As a property wealthy Chapter 49 “recapture” district, G-PISD will continue to feel the pinch of rising property values and higher recapture payments.
STATE FUNDING STAGNATION
$6,160
Per student state funding has been unchanged since 2019.
+ $55
The 89th Texas Legislature increased funding by $55.
= $6,215
This new per student allotment falls significantly short of the amount needed to keep up with inflation.
OUR PACK IS GROWING
Unlike many Texas school districts facing declining enrollment, Gregory-Portland’s student enrollment is increasing.
Between 2018-2024, the district’s enrollment grew by 290 students (6.2%). During that same period, districts in our region experienced a five-year enrollment decrease of 5,925 students (-5.9%).
This is good news because state funding is based on attendance and the more students enrolled, the greater the attendance total. However, it’s important to note that since state funding is based on attendance, it’s important for all students to be at school every day.
Our attendance rate for the 2024-25 school year was 93%
and our goal for 2025-26 is 94%.
For every 1% of growth, G-PISD would increase state funding by $308,000.