The Van Alstyne ISD Board of Trustees approved the district’s final 2025–26 budget amendment during a special meeting on Monday, Aug. 31. The board voted 5–0 to approve the measure.
District administrators identified several budget functions where actual expenses exceeded the amounts originally budgeted following the completion of the year-end accrual process. The amendment reallocates available funds, primarily from Function 81, Facilities Acquisition and Construction, to cover these expenses without using the district’s fund balance.
Officials explained that contingency funds remained available in Function 81 because several planned air-conditioning projects were postponed. While essential projects were completed, others were deferred.
The amendment addresses several specific areas. General administration includes approximately $54,000 for Teacher Incentive Allotment strategic planning, legal expenses, and the addition and training of a staff member to provide Skyward support.
Maintenance and operations covers approximately $148,000. This includes the early hiring and training of custodians ahead of the opening of Williams Elementary, employee pay and benefits, overtime, and higher-than-anticipated electricity costs at Van Alstyne High School and Sanford Elementary. Administration indicated it would work with the district’s facilities team to address the electricity overages during the 2026–27 school year.
Security and monitoring accounts for approximately $75,000. These funds are associated with adding a second police officer at the high school, equipment for the new officer, and additional police coverage at extracurricular events.
The amendment also includes the reclassification of the communications officer’s salary, benefits, and required professional development from general administration to the appropriate budget function. Additionally, it includes an adjustment for appraisal district fees resulting from information received later than usual during the previous budget process.
