Frisco ISD leaders took a closer look at employee compensation and the District’s financial outlook during the April 2 budget workshop, highlighting progress in reducing a projected deficit while maintaining a competitive pay structure for staff.
The workshop centered on two major priorities: annual salary benchmarking and updated strategies to close the district’s projected 2026-27 budget gap.
Compensation review
District officials presented findings from an annual compensation review comparing Frisco ISD to 19 peer districts in the region. Teacher pay continues to be the primary focus, with the District’s salary structure remaining closely aligned with the local market.
New teachers in Frisco ISD earn salaries within about $300 of the market median, while more experienced educators surpass the median around the 10-year mark. This approach reflects the District’s long-standing emphasis on retaining experienced teachers.
Overall, average teacher salaries remain in line with neighboring districts, with additional earning opportunities available through stipends and the Teacher Incentive Allotment.
For non-teaching positions, the District defines competitive pay as falling within 90%-110% of the market median. Officials reported that most roles currently meet that benchmark, though targeted reviews are underway for certain auxiliary positions facing increased labor market pressure.
In addition to salaries, the District continues to stand out in employee benefits, particularly in health insurance contributions, which rank in the top quartile among peer districts.
Budget update
District leaders also shared encouraging progress in addressing the projected 2026-27 budget shortfall.
Since January, the projected 2026-27 deficit has been reduced from $28.6 million to approximately $2.1 million through a combination of cost-saving measures and proposed revenue strategies.
Key steps include $6.4 million in central department efficiencies and budget reductions, which include the use of an additional $2.1 million in Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone funds to offset operating costs.
Trustees also discussed several proposed revenue options.
Additional savings in 2026-27 will come from staffing efficiencies tied to enrollment balancing across campuses and adjustments to the middle school instructional coaching model — all previously discussed during a January workshop.
This reduction in the FISD workforce can be reached through attrition and restructuring; layoffs are not needed.
Looking ahead
While Frisco ISD has made substantial progress, officials noted that several variables remain in flux, including final payroll projections and Access Frisco enrollment revenue, which are not yet part of the 2026-27 budget. Both factors could further improve the District’s financial position ahead of final decisions.
The next budget workshop is scheduled for May 7, with formal budget adoption planned for June.