How Bryan ISD is Responding to the Texas Legislature’s Proposed Education Budgets: What It Means for Students and Schools

BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) – The 89th Texas Legislature has unveiled its early budget proposals, highlighting significant spending for education in Texas.

These budget plans cover the state’s funding for the upcoming 2026 and 2027 fiscal years. With an impressive surplus of around $24 billion available, both the House and Senate are working on budget bills, many of which overlap, especially in education funding.

Here’s a quick look at the proposed education funding:

• $4.85 billion for public schools
• $400 million for enhancing school safety
• A $4,000 pay raise for teachers, plus an extra $6,000 for those in rural areas as suggested by the Senate
• $1 billion to initiate a school voucher program

This voucher proposal marks a significant increase from the previous budget’s $500 million plan.

Kevin Beesaw, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services for Bryan ISD, noted that this session’s funding looks quite similar to last session’s proposals. In the 88th Texas Legislature, $5 billion was earmarked for public education, but funding and voucher plans ultimately fell through during four special sessions.

Beesaw believes that additional funding would greatly benefit public education. “It would be a definite shot in the arm,” he stated, emphasizing its potential impact.

News Three’s Anna Maynard spoke with Bastrop County Representative Stan Gerdes about the challenges of funding in the past legislative session. Gerdes noted, “There was a good deal on the table last session for public schools. What that looks like this session is still uncertain.”

He also stressed the importance of supporting rural school districts and expressed his backing for school voucher legislation.

Looking ahead, Beesaw summarized the situation well: “It’s a waiting game to see what makes it to the governor’s desk.” He highlighted the need for clarity on funding allocation, hoping to see a meaningful distribution of resources for education.