**School District in Texas with Surplus Funds Facing Potential Changes**
The Round Top-Carmine Independent School District in Texas is facing potential changes despite having managed to adopt a budget for the new school year with a surplus, a rare feat in a region where most school districts are struggling with deficits. Superintendent Brandon Schovajsa, who wears many hats within the district to ensure smooth operations, highlighted the challenges they face in maintaining their financial stability amidst the increasing demands for resources and repairs.
**Financial Challenges and Surplus Funds**
Superintendent Schovajsa’s district of 229 students in Carmine, Texas, is one of the few in Central Texas that managed to adopt a budget with a surplus for the new school year. However, he is quick to point out that their financial situation could quickly turn into a deficit if they were fully staffed. The district is currently in need of two more teachers, and the lack of personnel is putting a strain on their operations.
One of the pressing financial concerns for the district is the need for $150,000 worth of air conditioning repairs. With no funds allocated in the budget for such a significant expense, the district is facing tough decisions on how to address this issue without compromising the quality of education provided to its students. Superintendent Schovajsa emphasized the importance of adequate funding to support the district’s operations and maintain its high standards of academic excellence.
**Challenges of Staffing and Funding**
The Round Top-Carmine ISD is not alone in facing challenges related to staffing and funding. Many school districts in Central Texas are struggling to balance their budgets and provide essential resources for their students. The shortage of teachers and support staff has become a common issue across the region, leading to increased workloads for those already in the system.
Superintendent Schovajsa highlighted the dedication and resourcefulness of his staff in filling in the gaps caused by the staffing shortages. Last year, one of their principals had to teach an English class, and the history teachers collaborated to cover a vacancy in their department. Despite these challenges, the district maintains its A-rated status and continues to produce excellent results for its students.
**Financial Support and Community Involvement**
In light of the financial constraints faced by the district, Superintendent Schovajsa emphasized the importance of additional funding to support their operations and provide the necessary resources for their students. The district is planning to ask voters to approve two golden pennies, which would increase the tax revenue for the school district by approximately $178,000. This additional funding would allow the district to address pressing needs such as maintenance repairs and investments in technology and arts programs.
The issue of recapture, where property-rich school districts are required to share their local tax revenue with other districts, adds another layer of complexity to the financial challenges faced by Round Top-Carmine ISD. Despite being a small district serving less than 300 students, the district is required to pay over $2 million to the state under the recapture system. This significant financial burden limits the district’s ability to invest in essential resources and facilities for its students.
**Community Support and Resourcefulness**
Superintendent Schovajsa praised the community’s support and resourcefulness in helping the district overcome financial challenges and provide a high-quality education for its students. The district’s education fund donates $90,000 each year to support technology and arts programs, while the booster club covers expenses for athletic travel, meals, and equipment. The parents club also plays a crucial role in supporting various school activities, from field trips to classroom supplies.
Despite the financial constraints and staffing shortages, Round Top-Carmine ISD continues to excel academically and provide a nurturing environment for its students. Superintendent Schovajsa expressed pride in the district’s achievements and emphasized the importance of adequate funding to sustain their success in the long term. The community’s unwavering support and commitment to the district’s mission have been instrumental in overcoming financial challenges and providing a quality education for all students.