Denton ISD Defining Dollars

How much money does the district get?

School districts typically rely on three primary sources of funding:

Local: Property taxes paid by homeowners and businesses make up the majority of the revenue Denton ISD receives or about 82.4% of Denton ISD’s operating budget revenue. Property values are determined by the Denton County Appraisal District (DCAD).

State: Texas school districts receive funding from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) based primarily on student attendance. State revenue makes up the difference between total revenue earned and local tax revenue. About 15.9% of Denton ISD’s operating budget revenue comes from the state, but the state’s share has been decreasing due to Denton ISD’s increasing property values. In addition, the state has not increased the basic allotment of $6,160 per student since 2019 and has not been adjusted for over 15% inflation. The funding formula is set in statute.

Federal: Federal revenues are directed toward reimbursements only and make up 1.7% of the operating budget revenue.

School Taxes, by the Glass

State aid is a critical component of funding for school districts, designed to ensure equitable access to education and support for diverse student needs across a state. It supplements local revenue sources, such as property taxes.

Less State Aid, Greater Property Tax Revenue: Since the district’s property values have been increasing, Denton ISD receives less funding from the state. 

State Aid, Property Tax Revenue: Local property taxes fill the glass first, and the state fills in any space that is left.