HISD Unscripted | Ep. 9 - Beyond the Ballot: What the VATRE Means for Hereford ISD

In this week’s episode of HISD Unscripted, Superintendent Dr. Carter and hosts Kara and Adam continue the conversation on the Voter-Approved Tax Rate Election (VATRE)—what it is, how it impacts our district, and why it’s critical for Hereford ISD’s future.

🔍 Topics Covered:

✅ What is a VATRE? A refresher on what it means and how it allows districts to recapture funding through local voter approval.

✅ Tax Rate Breakdown & History Dr. Carter explains how our M&O rate has been compressed since 2018—and what that means for HISD's funding and long-term planning.

✅ Why a VATRE Matters Now • Sustaining vital programs • Providing competitive staff salaries • Managing the impact of rising homestead exemptions and unfunded mandates

✅ How Funds Would Be Used • Supporting new programs like the HISD Staff Daycare • Maintaining CTE pathways and adding more student offerings • Helping retain and recruit staff through competitive compensation

✅ A Strategic Move, Not Just a Temporary Fix • The VATRE allows HISD to capture up to 12 cents, which can be used gradually over time • These funds cannot be taken away once approved by voters

✅ Upcoming Community Involvement A committee is forming on July 10 at 6 PM to help advocate, ask tough questions, and prepare voters with accurate information.

📢 Key Takeaways:

• HISD is not asking for more—we’re asking to preserve what we have
• The VATRE is about local control and financial sustainability
• It's a long-term plan to keep HISD strong for students, staff, and the entire community

💬 Get Involved:

Have questions? Want to join the July 10 committee or learn more?

📧 Email: hisdmedia@herefordisd.net 📲 Message us on Facebook or your favorite platform 🌐 Info page coming soon!