This week, the House overwhelmingly approved House Bill 3646, which provides additional and more equitable funding for our public school finance system. This bill is crucial to the future of our education system. "[HB 3646] is a step in the right direction," said Representative Hochberg, who authored the bill. "Our school districts have an important job and we worked hard to give the schools more aid."
HB 3646 delivers $1.9 billion in additional public school funding. Assuming tax rates are kept steady, Grand Prairie ISD would see an estimated $287 increase in per student funding over the biennium. Irving ISD would receive an estimated $297 per student.
These funds provide an across-the-board pay raise for teachers of at least $800 per year. The bill also allows districts to invest in the Teacher Retirement System and Social Security. HB 3646 now moves to the Senate.
by Kirk England
