The Texas Education Agency (TEA) announced that Denton Independent School District (DISD) received a “superior” financial accountability rating for the 2024‑25 school year, scoring 98 out of 100 points. The rating, part of TEA’s School Financial Accountability Rating System of Texas (School FIRST), evaluates districts on debt payment, financial reporting, solvency and other fiscal health measures.

What the rating means for Denton families

Vicki Garcia, DISD’s executive director of financial operations, told the board at its regular meeting on Oct. 27 that the rating is a clear signal of responsible stewardship of community‑provided resources. “[They] know that we [DISD] are being financially responsible with our resources that are provided to us by our community and state,” Garcia said. She added that the rating builds confidence among stakeholders, staff and teachers.

Score details and trends

DISD earned full marks in financial reporting, financial management and cash‑reserve stability. The district’s cash‑reserve score rose two points from the prior year, reflecting a stronger buffer for unexpected expenses. The only area where points were deducted was long‑term debt, which the TEA noted was slightly high relative to the district’s property‑tax base. Even so, DISD’s score in that category improved by two points compared with the 2023‑24 school year, when the district earned 94 out of 100 points.

Since the School FIRST system was introduced, DISD has consistently achieved a superior rating each year, underscoring a long‑standing commitment to fiscal responsibility.

Regional context

The TEA report indicates that the majority of districts in the Dallas‑Fort Worth metro area also received superior ratings, suggesting that many local school systems are maintaining strong financial practices.

Why the rating matters

A superior rating can influence community confidence, property‑value perceptions and future funding decisions. It reassures parents that their tax dollars are being managed prudently and that the district is prepared to meet educational needs without compromising financial stability.

District officials plan to continue monitoring debt levels and to explore ways to further strengthen cash reserves, ensuring that Denton students benefit from both high‑quality instruction and sound fiscal management.

Looking ahead

Garcia emphasized that the district will keep transparency at the forefront of its operations, providing regular updates to the community and maintaining the high standards that earned the superior rating. The next School FIRST evaluation will be released after the 2025‑26 school year, giving DISD another opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to responsible budgeting and financial health.

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