Budget Snapshot
At a February 19, 2026 update, Chief Financial Officer Dennis Covington shared the district’s preliminary figures:
Projected revenue: $492.16 million
Projected expenses: $490.13 million
Expense adjustments: Department budgets may see at least a 10% reduction
Enrollment projection: A decline from 46,147 to 45,500 students
Covington noted that the district will also review separate budgets for food services and debt payments, with details on those coming in future board discussions.
Enrollment and Funding Pressures
The expected drop of 647 students is influenced by a growing number of local charter schools and the new Education Savings Accounts (ESA) program set to start in 2026-27. ESA allows eligible families to use state funds for private school tuition or homeschooling.
Covington emphasized that charter school growth is an ongoing factor affecting Round Rock ISD, pointing out that roughly 10% of students left the district for charter schools during the 2022-23 year. Additional charter schools in Georgetown and Leander contribute to the overall shift in enrollment.
Departmental Impacts
Lower projected enrollment and the need to reduce spending mean departments could face budget cuts. Some staff positions may be eliminated, while others could be added depending on district priorities and student needs.
What Comes Next
This budget presentation is the first in a series that will go before the Round Rock ISD board. The district must finalize and approve its 2026-27 budget before the fiscal year begins on July 1, 2026.
