What Is The VATRE & Why?

Hitchcock ISD is committed to transpare

ncy in how our schools are funded and how tax dollars are used to help enhance the educational experience for our students. This November, voters will be asked to consider a Voter-Approval Tax Rate Election (VATRE). A VATRE is a special election that allows school districts in Texas to seek voter approval to increase the district’s maintenance and operations (M&O) tax rate above the state-mandated threshold. The VATRE would cost the average $191,131 home an additional $15 per year, while generating $1.34 million in local funds and additional state matched funding for student programs, essential operations, and employee compensation in Hitchcock ISD.

What this means for homeowners

• In 2024, the Texas Homestead Exemption was $100,000.
• In 2025, voters have the option to pass a $40,000 increase to the homestead exemption, making it $140,000.
• Because of this change, Hitchcock ISD homeowners should see their overall tax bills go down this year.

With the increase in the homestead exemption - the average Hitchcock homeowner’s tax bill should drop by $287.85.

The Future of Hitchcock ISD: Community Town Halls

Hitchcock ISD invites all families, staff, and community members to attend one of two Community Town Hall meetings with Interim Superintendent Dr. Darryl J. Henson on Tuesday, October 28, or Thursday, October 30, from 6:00–7:00 p.m. in the Hitchcock High School Cafeteria.

These sessions will include a comprehensive overview of the district’s finances, vision, and strategic plan, as well as detailed information about the upcoming Voter-Approval Tax Rate Election (VATRE). Guests will hear the State of the District, review financial and operational priorities, and have an opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with district leadership. All members of the community are welcome to attend—please bring a valid ID and check in through the front office.

Top Three Things Tax Payers Want To Know:

1. What will I have to pay?

• The average Hitchcock homeowner will potentially pay about $15 more per year (based on a $193,131 home with the new $140,000 homestead exemption) in 2026.
• That equals just over $1 a month.

2. What is the money for?

• Every dollar generated from VATRE 2025, an estimated $1.34 million, would stay in Hitchcock ISD and go in the maintenance & operations (M&O) funding bucket, which funds:

  • Safe and well-maintained facilities & transportation 
  • Student programs and daily operations
  • Teacher and staff salaries

3. How long will this last?

• The tax rate is set each year by the Hitchcock ISD Board of Trustees.
• Each year the Board re-examines the rate based on local and state funding available to the district.