Richardson ISD Updates Legislative Priorities and Launches Microschool Pilot

During the October 29 Board Work Session, Richardson ISD leadership presented several updates to the Board of Trustees. The district shared a revised draft of legislative priorities for the 90th Texas Legislative Session in 2027. These priorities focus on responsible technology use, school funding, and reducing unnecessary administrative requirements. The draft reflects feedback from community roundtables with PTAs, chambers of commerce, and higher education partners.

Key legislative goals include establishing age-appropriate screen-time guidelines and providing resources for integrating artificial intelligence into learning. Regarding school funding, the district seeks increased support for safety, special education, and districts facing enrollment declines. The draft notes that in 2026–27, RISD must cover $39.8 million of the $99.2 million cost of state-mandated programs with local funds.

The priorities also aim to simplify reporting requirements and clarify parental consent procedures for basic health services.

The Board of Trustees is scheduled to consider adopting these legislative priorities on November 19. Following adoption, the district will launch a communications effort to engage legislators, staff, families, and community partners.

RISD’s Social Studies Department also reported academic growth aligned with the district’s North Star Goal. 2026 STAAR results showed gains in 8th Grade Social Studies and U.S. History, with students outperforming state averages in key performance levels. Seven of eight junior high and middle school campuses earned STAAR distinctions for Masters-level performance, an increase from five in 2025.

Additionally, the district announced plans to launch two microschool pilot programs in the 2027–2028 school year. These models aim to expand educational opportunities and provide flexible learning experiences. The update also highlighted upcoming graduation requirement changes, including a new 0.5-credit Personal Financial Literacy requirement for students entering ninth grade in 2026–27.