Darrouzett ISD Proposes VATRE to Sustain and Support the Community's Future

The Darrouzett Independent School District (DISD) Board of Trustees has proposed a Voter-Approved Tax Rate Election (VATRE) to ensure that our schools have the resources needed to provide quality education, support staff retention, and maintain essential operations. This VATRE is more than just a budgetary adjustment—it reflects the district’s commitment to maintaining a high-quality educational environment and the wellbeing of our community.

What is a VATRE?
A VATRE is a tax rate adjustment approved by voters within the community. It allows school districts like DISD to raise the Maintenance & Operations (M&O) tax rate, which directly funds operational expenses such as teacher salaries, student programs, and essential school services. This election gives voters an opportunity to decide on whether to implement a new rate that will sustain and support the district’s efforts.

Why is the VATRE needed?
The need for a VATRE arises from a combination of external factors impacting the district’s funding. A decline in local taxable property values and the expiration of ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) funding have created a $10,000 budget deficit for DISD. This deficit makes it challenging for the district to continue supporting its operations without making cuts to vital programs and services.

Historical Tax Rate Table:

How would the VATRE funding be used?
If approved by the voters, the funding will be allocated towards:

• Teacher, Support Staff, and Maintenance Salaries: Supporting the individuals who are at the heart of our educational community and ensuring competitive compensation.

Understanding the Impact
The VATRE is designed to protect the quality of education and operational stability in Darrouzett ISD. Strong schools are integral to the community’s growth, attracting new families, enhancing property values, and fostering a thriving environment for everyone. As a resident of the Darrouzett community, your perspective and vote are instrumental in shaping the district’s future and the quality of education we provide.

How does the VATRE affect the community?
Investing in our school district is a long-term investment in the entire community’s success. Schools play a vital role in maintaining the vibrancy and desirability of a community, and providing adequate funding ensures that DISD can continue to uphold a high standard of education and service.

Want to Learn More?
We encourage all community members to stay informed and learn more about this proposal. For details on the VATRE, financial information, and frequently asked questions, please visit Darrouzett ISD VATRE 2024, or reach out to us directly:

• Address: 102 W Kansas Avenue, PO Box 98, Darrouzett, Texas 79024
• Phone: (806) 624-2221
• Email: jessicaweinette@darrouzettisd.net

We value the input and participation of every community member. Your engagement in this process is crucial to ensuring that we all work together to provide a strong educational foundation for the next generation. Thank you for taking the time to learn about the proposed VATRE and how it may impact Darrouzett ISD.

Important Note: This document is intended to inform and educate community members about the VATRE proposal. It does not advocate for any specific vote outcome and is fully compliant with Texas state laws governing the dissemination of information related to school district elections.

Click the image above to watch a video presentation from Superintendent Jessica Weinette.Download FAQs