During the regular board meeting on Nov. 10, the Tomball Independent School District (TISD) trustees took decisive action on both construction projects and the district’s upcoming legislative agenda. The board approved the use of 2025 bond funds for two major contracts and a cost increase for the Innovation Center, while Secretary Michael Pratt outlined the funding gaps the district faces as it prepares for the 90th Texas legislative session.

Legislative priorities and funding shortfalls

Pratt began the meeting with a concise overview of the district’s priorities for the next legislative session. He highlighted the “basic allotment” of $6,215 per student, noting that 87% of the district’s budget is allocated to payroll and that the current funding formula is creating a “struggle” for the district.

The board is seeking additional state support for three key areas:

• Safety and security: TISD is spending roughly $1.5 million more than the state provides for mandated safety measures, including school resource officers, which the district values but cannot fully fund.
• Special education: The district reports a $5.3 million shortfall in state funding for special‑education services.
• Transportation: Providing transportation for students within two miles of campus now costs $9 million more than the state allocation.

Pratt emphasized the district’s recent A‑rating from the Texas Education Agency and argued that maintaining local control over district improvement scores is essential for continued excellence. “We need help for funding and we need help with continued local control,” he said, adding that the district wants to remain distinct until it can demonstrate sustained high performance.

Construction contracts approved

The board also moved forward on three construction projects using bond proceeds:

• Athletic improvements: Hellas Construction will manage upgrades at Creekside Park and Tomball Memorial High School at a total cost of $5.19 million, with a $650,000 contingency.
• HVAC upgrades: CFI Mechanical received a $4.95 million contract to install heating, ventilation and air‑conditioning equipment at Tomball Elementary, Timber Creek Elementary, Creekside Forest Elementary, the district’s maintenance shop and carpentry shop, with a $200,000 contingency.
• Innovation Center expansion: The cost for the new Tomball Innovation Center Building #4 will rise from $2.54 million to $2.93 million, funded by Bond 2021.

These projects are intended to enhance the learning environment and support the district’s growth while addressing the identified safety and operational challenges.

Looking ahead

As the 90th legislative session approaches, TISD officials plan to advocate for increased state allocations that reflect the rising costs of mandated safety programs, special‑education services, and student transportation. By securing additional funding and preserving local control over performance metrics, the district aims to sustain its high academic standards and provide a safe, well‑equipped environment for students and staff.

The board’s actions at the Nov. 10 meeting demonstrate a proactive approach to both immediate infrastructure needs and longer‑term fiscal advocacy, underscoring the district’s commitment to its students, families, and the broader Tomball community.

Original reporting: Community Impact — Houston — read the source article.