Rockwall, TX (October 10, 2025) — Rockwall ISD Superintendent Dr. John Villarreal delivered a presentation to the Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce, highlighting the district’s ongoing commitment to student achievement and responsible fiscal stewardship.
In attendance were several students from the Dr. Gene Burton College and Career Academy (GBCCA), representing the district’s award-winning Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. The students showcased how Rockwall ISD’s innovative, hands-on learning opportunities are preparing future leaders for success in college, careers, and the community. In addition, Rockwall-Heath High School orchestra ensemble, under the direction of Mr. Chris Bell, performed for guests prior to event.
“Rockwall ISD continues to set a high standard for educational excellence,” said Dr. Villarreal. “Our students’ success reflects the incredible partnership between our teachers, staff, families, and community – working together to prepare learners who are confident and capable.”
Dr. Villarreal emphasized that Rockwall ISD has earned A-ratings for all three high schools – Rockwall High School, Rockwall-Heath High School, and Rockwall Quest Academy – and an overall accountability rating of 89 from the Texas Education Agency. These achievements come while the district continues to maintain one of the lowest property tax rates among comparable North Texas school districts.
“Few districts in Texas operate at Rockwall ISD’s level of academic excellence while maintaining such a conservative tax rate,” said Dr. Villarreal. “Many neighboring districts have already passed Voter-Approval Tax Ratification Elections for competitive teacher and staff compensation, underfunded Special Education and underfunded safety and security like School Resource Officers.”
The Voter-Approval Tax Ratification Election (VATRE), scheduled for November 4, 2025, would provide funding dedicated entirely for competitive teacher and staff compensation, student programs, underfunded Special Education and other student programs, and underfunded school safety and security.
If approved by voters, VATRE funds would be allocated as follows:
- 64% ($10.5 million) for competitive teacher and staff compensation,
- 24% ($4 million) for underfunded Special Education and other student programs, and
- 12% ($2 million) for underfunded school safety and security.
To ensure financial accountability and transparency, on August 18th the Rockwall ISD Board of Trustees adopted next year’s 2026 – 2027 Compensation Plan, a legally binding document that guarantees funds generated by the Voter-Approval Tax Ratification Election (VATRE) will go directly to teachers and staff as approved.
Dr. Villarreal also underscored Rockwall ISD’s significant role in the local economy. According to the Rockwall Economic Development Corporation, the district is one of Rockwall County’s largest employers, generating $6.7 million in monthly economic impact.
The presentation also spotlighted several district honors that highlight Rockwall ISD’s core values of relationships, innovation and excellence:
- “A” accountability ratings for Rockwall High School, Rockwall-Heath High School, and Rockwall Quest Academy.
- Rockwall High School was ranked #1 in academic growth among 40 comparable high schools, according to the 2025 Texas Education Agency Accountability Ratings.
- Rockwall-Heath High School celebrated a record 279 AP Scholars in 2025, with students demonstrating outstanding college-level achievement across multiple AP Exams.
- Recognition as a Texas Art Education Association District of Distinction for the third consecutive year.
- Named one of the Best Communities for Music Education by the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation for the ninth year in a row.
- Designated a Career and Technical Education District of Distinction by the Career and Technical Association of Texas for leadership and innovation in workforce readiness.
- 90% of athletic programs at both Rockwall High School and Rockwall-Heath High School advanced to state playoffs during the 2024–2025 school year.
Dr. Villarreal concluded by thanking Chamber members for their ongoing collaboration. “Our shared success depends on partnerships like these,” he said.
“We were honored to host Superintendent Villarreal and showcase the strong partnership between the Chamber and Rockwall ISD. Our district is a cornerstone of this community, and we are committed to supporting their efforts in shaping the future workforce, fostering leadership, and maintaining excellence in education. It’s clear that when business and education collaborate, our entire community thrives.” – Darby Nielsen, President/CEO, Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce
For more information about Rockwall ISD or the upcoming VATRE, visit rockwallisd.com/vatre25.
Press release by Darby Nielsen, Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce, edited for publication in Blue Ribbon News. Courtesy photo.
Rockwall ISD showcases student success, fiscal responsibility, and community impact at Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce partnership luncheon added by Melanie M on
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