Northwest ISD earns top rating for 23rd straight year in financial integrity

For the 23^rd consecutive year, Northwest ISD has earned an “A” rating – classified as “Superior” from the Texas Education Agency for its financial integrity.

Since the introduction of the School Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas in 2001, Northwest ISD has earned an “A” rating in every year of the oversight program’s existence. The program is designed to encourage Texas public schools to manage their financial resources efficiently and in accordance with best practices.

As outlined by TEA, earning an “A” rating aligns with a school district providing “the maximum allocation possible for direct instructional purposes.” In Northwest ISD, teacher salaries compose 10% more of the district’s staffing budget than the state average.

The FIRST system analyzes 21 financial indicators to rate the quality of financial management of a school district. Examples of indicators include an annual comprehensive financial report being free of material weakness, maintaining a low administrative cost ratio, and having sufficient cash on hand for general operations.

TEA will formally assign ratings in November following an appeals process, though Northwest ISD has already earned its “A” rating. The district will present a report to the school board in October regarding the rating in compliance with state law.