At a specially called meeting on Monday, June 29, the Smithville ISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved a general pay increase of 2% of the midpoint for all employees. This action followed discussion regarding the development of the 2026-2027 budget and a review of the recent compensation study conducted by the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB).
Smithville ISD enlisted TASB to conduct a comprehensive pay study to inform the development of the 2026-2027 compensation plan. The study analyzed peer districts and/or other similar industries to evaluate the District’s alignment to market value across all positions. As a result, strategic adjustments to positions below market value were recommended in addition to the approved 2% general pay increase of the midpoint. The updated compensation plan also includes significant pay increases for substitute teachers.
In planning the budget for the upcoming school year, the Board and Administration are focused on three guiding priorities:
Invest in our Students: Continue to provide high quality instructional materials and supplemental resources to enhance learning and supportive services to meet students’ needs.
Invest in our Staff: Allocation of funds for competitively compensated teachers and staff.
Ensure Operational Sustainability: Maintain safe, functional learning environments, including all facilities, technology, and transportation.
At the June 29 meeting, the Board also received a report on the status of the current year budget and reviewed projected revenue and expenditures for 2026-2027. Smithville ISD is on track to end the current fiscal year with revenue exceeding expenditures.
Discussion was held regarding a variety of potential facilities and other improvements over the next several years including items such as HVAC replacements, safety and security enhancements, Career Technology Education (CTE), fine arts, and athletic program needs, and technology upgrades.
The 2026-2027 budget development process will continue at the regularly scheduled July 20 meeting, and the budget and tax rate is expected to be approved at the August 24, 2026 Regular Board meeting.