Special Called Board Meeting | May 21, 2026

The Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District held a special called board meeting on May 21, 2026, focused primarily on budget planning for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. The meeting included public comments emphasizing the need for increased funding, particularly to support paraprofessionals and teachers, and to address declining enrollment and rising costs. The board reviewed a detailed budget workshop presentation by the CFO and superintendent, highlighting a projected $67.4 million deficit, declining enrollment impacts, and comparisons of compensation and funding with neighboring districts. Key procurement-related discussions centered on potential salary increases, health insurance premium adjustments, reinstatement of librarian and counselor positions, and the financial implications of accessing additional tax revenue pennies. The board discussed options for one-time stipends versus permanent raises to support lower-paid employees while maintaining fiscal sustainability. Consensus was reached to include a $500 one-time recruitment and retention stipend for all employees and to increase district health insurance contributions to offset rising premiums. The board acknowledged the need for community support through a potential voter-approved tax rate election (VADER) to address long-term funding challenges and maintain educational quality. No formal votes were recorded during this meeting; rather, the session served to guide budget priorities for the upcoming proposal and approval process.