Early voting results in the Judson Independent School District (ISD) signal a significant rejection of a proposed property tax increase aimed at funding educational initiatives. Approximately 60% of early voters opposed the 4.5-cent increase during the recent tax rate election, also known as a Voter-Approved Tax Rate Election (VATRE). This increase would have generated an additional $21 million annually under the district’s maintenance and operations rate.
Had the measure passed, the tax rate would have risen from $1.03 to just under $1.08 per $100 of taxable property value. Judson ISD officials indicated that the additional funds were crucial for addressing a $27 million deficit and would have facilitated pay increases for staff, supported academic programs, and enhanced student services.
The rejection of the VATRE leaves the district facing difficult choices, including potential school consolidations and cuts to programs and staff. “It was very disheartening,” stated Lilyana Contreras, a senior at Judson Early College Academy, who campaigned for the VATRE on social media. Although she was not eligible to vote, she expressed concern for the educational opportunities available to both current and future students. “We need our communities to be supported,” she emphasized, highlighting the need for educational programs beyond just academic needs.
Superintendent Robert Milton Fields discussed the district’s future at a public funding town hall in October, indicating that program viability would need to be assessed based on student enrollment and the funds available. “We would have to look at programs in terms of return on investment,” he noted.
The financial challenges facing Judson ISD are reflective of broader issues within Texas school districts, many of which are grappling with budget deficits. Since 2019, the base amount of state funding per pupil has not seen significant increases. In August, Texas lawmakers allocated $8.5 billion for public education through House Bill 2, primarily aimed at providing pay raises for teachers with over two years of experience. This funding approach has left newer teachers and vital staff roles, such as librarians and counselors, without adequate financial support.
The November ballot also featured propositions intended to increase homestead exemptions related to school district tax rates. VATREs serve as a mechanism for districts to secure additional state funding through a system known as “golden pennies,” where state contributions are linked to local property values. Superintendent Fields remarked, “What the state is going to look at is what the communities do to assist themselves. VATREs are a way for communities to assist themselves.”
As the election results were confirmed, district officials chose not to comment immediately, stating they would provide further updates the following morning. Caroleena Mancilla, chair of the Together For Judson Public Schools PAC, did not respond to inquiries regarding the outcome by the time of publication.
The implications of this decision are significant for the Judson community, as it raises questions about the future of educational funding and resources in the district. With the rejection of the VATRE, the path forward may involve tough decisions that could affect the quality of education and support services available to students.
