Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees Approves $898M Budget Focused on Employee Compensation and Fiscal Responsibility

FORT BEND ISD (June 16, 2026) – The Fort Bend Independent School District Board of Trustees approved the district's proposed budget for the 2026-27 school year, totaling $898,004,955.  The approved budget prioritizes employee compensation while maintaining the district's commitment to long-term financial stability.

The compensation plan includes targeted investments designed to attract, retain and reward high-quality educators and support staff who make a difference in the lives of students every day.
 

Key components of the compensation plan include:

• Differentiated Teacher Steps: An innovative pay structure that rewards teachers based on their years of experience, helping keep salaries competitive as educators advance in their careers.
• Teacher Retention Allotment (TRA) and Staff Retention Allotment (SRA): State-funded allotments for eligible classroom teachers and designated personnel. Teachers in years three and five of service will receive a higher TRA.
• Second-Year Thank You Supplement: Additional compensation for employees who do not qualify for the TRA program, recognizing their continued dedication and service to Fort Bend ISD.
• Bus Driver and Monitor Pay Increases: Higher wages designed to attract and retain the employees who safely transport students each day.

"Fort Bend ISD's employees are the foundation of our success, and this budget reflects our commitment to investing in the people who serve our students and families every day," said Superintendent Dr. Marc Smith. "At the same time, we remain focused on being responsible stewards of taxpayer resources," he added. 

“The approved budget maintains the district's required 90-day fund balance, ensuring Fort Bend ISD remains financially stable,” said Board President Kristin Tassin.

This budget plan is prepared to address future needs while continuing to provide high-quality educational opportunities for over 78,000 students.