Everyone has the right to either oppose or support Keller ISD's upcoming Tax Ratification Election (TRE). Regardless, it is important to check the facts before making a choice or trying to help others make theirs.
- Why is Keller ISD’s tax rate higher than surrounding districts?
Keller ISD’s combined tax rate IS higher than many of our neighboring districts due to the District having to open 21 new buildings in the last 10 years. The District’s operating rate is in fact the same as other districts.
- Why does the district need the monies that would come from the Tax Ratification Election?
Keller ISD is not just asking for more money. After already reducing our budget by $16 million, we anticipate experiencing a reduction in State funding in an amount close to an additional $16 Million. The tax ratification election, if passed, would “replace” those soon to be missing state dollars.
- Why does Keller ISD continue to spend unwisely and expect the taxpayers to clean up the mess?
Keller ISD has been recognized by the State of Texas Comptroller for being one of the most efficient in the state. We have been categorized as a “very low” spender by the State. Keller ISD spent just 2.6% on administration last year.
- Why is Keller ISD asking to raise taxes instead of simply making cuts like other companies?
Keller ISD has cut millions of dollars from its budget over the last several years, and has already cut $16 million for next year before the state’s cuts.
- How can Keller ISD afford all those new buildings yet have such budget issues?
Buildings are paid for with the debt service portion of the tax rate. The daily operations of the District are paid for with the operating portion of the tax rate.
- Why aren’t other school districts having Tax Ratification Elections?
Many are. Including some in Northeast Tarrant County.
- What are the major cuts to the district’s budget if the TRE fails?
The budget reductions that would be necessary are as follows:
|
Necessary Budget Reductions (Tier Two) having to do with loss of state funding and failure of TRE
(Preliminary and Tentative) |
| Key Budget Reductions |
Dollar Impact |
| Eliminate All Regular Education Transportation |
$2,036,000 |
| Eliminate Uniformed Security Officers from all High School Campuses |
$465,000 |
| Elimination of 20 Elementary Music and Art Positions |
$1,100,000 |
| Elimination of Theater Arts at Intermediate Schools (5 Positions) |
$275,000 |
| Elimination of 4 High School Fine Arts Positions |
$220,000 |
| Eliminate Assistant Band Positions (5 Positions) |
$275,000 |
| Eliminate One Athletic Trainer at Each HS Campus |
$203,000 |
| Eliminate Strength and Conditioning Coach at Each HS Campus |
$200,000 |
| Eliminate Power Lifting Program |
$25,000 |
| Additional Cuts to Athletic Budgets and Stipends |
$547,000 |
| Class Size Increase (Resulting in Elimination of 66 Teacher Positions) |
$3,630,000 |
| Elimination of Summer School |
$290,000 |
| Elimination of Field Trip Allotment |
$175,000 |
| Elimination of Library Books Budget |
$400,000 |
| Elimination of District Payment for Letter Jackets |
$92,500 |
| Elimination of 3 High School Assistant Principal Positions |
$210,000 |
| Elimination of 3 High School Counselor Positions |
$180,000 |
| Elimination of 27 remaining Cafeteria Monitor Positions at ES and IS |
$191,000 |
| Elimination of 16 Librarian Positions |
$800,000 |
| Elimination of 27 Campus Clerical Staff Positions |
$560,000 |
| Additional 2 Furlough Days for Non-Teaching Staff |
$231,000 |
| Elimination of 16 Administrative Staff Positions |
$756,000 |
| Elimination of 20 Maintenance and Custodial Positions |
$646,000 |
| Elimination of Hazardous Routes |
$127,000 |