Texas Public School Finance Overview

The document provides an overview of the Texas Public School Finance System, focusing on the Foundation School Program (FSP). Here are the key points:

Foundation School Program (FSP)

The FSP determines the state funding that school districts and charter schools are entitled to receive. It considers factors like student enrollment, district size, geographic location, and local property values. (Reference)

Funding Components

The FSP includes various funding sources such as the Foundation School Fund, Property Tax Relief Fund, Available School Fund, Lottery Proceeds, and the TREE Fund. (Reference)

State and Local Shares

The document explains the balance between state and local funding, with the state providing a portion of the funds and the rest being generated locally through property taxes. (Reference)

Maintenance and Operations (M&O) and Interest and Sinking (I&S) Taxes

The FSP also covers M&O taxes for salaries, utilities, etc., and I&S taxes for debt service payments on voter-approved bonds. (Reference)

Entitlements and Appropriations

The document details how entitlements are calculated and how state appropriations are allocated to support public education. (Reference)

Recent Changes

It includes recent changes and updates to the school finance system, such as those introduced by House Bill 3 (HB 3). (Reference)

The document serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding how public schools in Texas are funded and the various components involved in the school finance system.