Submitted press release by Rockwall ISD Communications
ROCKWALL, TX (Oct. 23, 2025) Rockwall Independent School District continues to put students first by investing in their safety, security, and educational support—despite the State not fully funding mandates in these critical areas.
Each year, Rockwall ISD allocates millions of dollars from its General Fund to meet safety and special education requirements that exceed State funding levels. The Voter-Approval Tax Ratification Election (VATRE) would help Rockwall Independent School District continue to fund essential student safety and special education services that the State of Texas does not fully cover.
State Mandates Cost Breakdown
Safety and Security: The District invests approximately $3.4 million annually to maintain safe campuses, while the State provides only $1.1 million, leaving more than $2 million covered by the District.
Special Education: Rockwall ISD spends approximately $26 million each year to meet state special education requirements. The State contributes about $19 million, so the District covers more than $7 million to ensure students receive the required services and resources.
If approved by voters, the Voter-Approval Tax Ratification Election (VATRE) would provide additional funding to help offset these underfunded mandates:
12 percent of VATRE funds, or $2 million, would support safety and security expenses, including salaries for School Resource Officers and Auxiliary School Officers, security guards, monitoring systems, fencing, and other safety measures.
24 percent of VATRE funds, or $4 million, would be dedicated to special education, addressing funding gaps for educator and specialist salaries, legally required testing (including for non-public school students as required by law), specialized equipment, transportation services for special education students and more.
Rockwall ISD remains committed to providing safe, inclusive, and supportive environments for all students—ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
For more information about the VATRE and how funds would be used, visit www.rockwallisd.org/vatre25.
Submitted press release by Rockwall ISD Communications.
Rockwall ISD Outlines VATRE Funding Plans for Safety and Special Education added by Editor on
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