Texas City ISD has once again demonstrated its commitment to responsible financial management, earning a perfect score of 100 and the highest possible rating of Superior Achievement through the Texas Education Agency's Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST) for 2025–2026.
The district also earned the highest financial accountability rating in Galveston County, continuing its record of excellence in financial stewardship and accountability to taxpayers.
Established by the Texas Legislature in 2001, FIRST is the state's financial accountability system for public school districts. The program is designed to hold districts accountable for the quality of their financial management practices while encouraging the efficient use of resources to maximize funding available for direct instruction and student learning.
The 2025–2026 ratings are based on financial data from fiscal year 2025. The state's evaluation considers financial indicators that measure the overall financial health and management practices of school districts, including administrative expenditures, accuracy of financial reporting, financial stability and internal financial controls.
Districts receive one of four ratings: Superior Achievement, Above Standard Achievement, Meets Standard Achievement or Substandard Achievement.
Texas City ISD's perfect score of 100 represents the highest possible performance under the state's financial accountability scoring system.
The recognition is particularly meaningful as Texas public schools continue to navigate financial challenges, rising operational costs and the need to maximize resources for student success.
Earning the state's highest financial rating reflects the district's commitment to careful budgeting, sound financial practices, accurate reporting and responsible oversight of public funds.
This achievement is the result of a collaborative effort among the district's Business and Finance Department, administrative leadership and Board of Trustees, whose work helps ensure that financial resources are managed responsibly in support of the district's educational mission.
For Texas City ISD, financial accountability is about more than earning a rating. It is about maintaining the public's trust and ensuring that taxpayer resources are used effectively to provide students with quality educational experiences and opportunities for success.
About FIRST
The Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas was created by the 77th Texas Legislature in 2001 to promote financial accountability in public education. Administered by the Texas Education Agency, the system evaluates the financial management practices of Texas public school districts using information from annual financial reports and other financial indicators.
More information about FIRST is available through the Texas Education Agency at https://tea.texas.gov.