Richardson ISD Cuts $25.7M Budget, Raises Teacher Pay

Richardson Independent School District's board approved a $25.7 million budget reduction for 2026-2027 on June 4, while increasing teacher salaries across the district serving 38,000 students.

Teachers with four or more years of experience receive $2,000 raises. Those with one to three years get $1,000 increases. Starting salaries rise to $63,500 for certified teachers and $63,000 for uncertified teachers. Paraprofessionals and auxiliary staff get 3% raises; other exempt employees receive 2%. Counselors and nurses receive the same increases as teachers based on experience.

The district cut non-payroll spending, adjusted staffing, reorganized departments, and modified schedules at middle and high schools. The cuts respond to enrollment declines and flat state funding. District leaders protected classroom instruction and core student services.

Student meal prices remain unchanged. The Child Nutrition Fund projects $19.3 million in revenue against $19.7 million in expenses, narrowing the deficit from previous years. Twenty-three campuses continue operating under the Community Eligibility Provision, which provides free meals to all students at those schools.

The board also approved selling $200 million in bonds authorized by voters last year. The bond sale increased the district's Interest and Sinking tax rate from 35 cents to 39 cents per $100 of property valuation. Bond funds support voter-approved capital projects including facility improvements, safety upgrades, and infrastructure work.

Richardson ISD maintains Aaa ratings from Moody's and AA+ from Standard & Poor's. The budget takes effect July 1, 2026.