Rockwall Voices Op-Ed
I decided to write this special op-ed because, with Proposition A on the November ballot, there has been a significant amount of discussion in our community. It’s important to review the facts and address misconceptions that have surfaced in the conversation.
Let’s Review the Facts
- Total school district tax increase: $13 per month
- Total additional funding: $16.5 million
- 64% ($10.5M): Competitive Teacher & Staff Pay
- 24% ($4M): Special Education & Other Student Needs
- 12% ($2M): School Safety
- Does VATRE create new debt? No.
- Will Rockwall ISD pay recapture? No.
- OV65 impact by the VATRE: Absolutely, no
- Does Rockwall ISD coordinate with PACs? Absolutely no
Let’s Address the Arguments
The most popular argument against the VATRE is that the school district is mismanaging its budget. The facts tell a different story. Rockwall ISD consistently excels in every efficiency study mandated by the state. The district also performs exceptionally well in all state-required efficiency audits, These audits are supported by both of our state representatives.
See for yourself by reading the Independent Accountant’s Report on Applying Agreed-Upon Procedures Related to House Bill 3 Efficiency Audit Guidelines.
And by the way, have you noticed that the “naysayers” never provide actual data to support their claims? They absolutely have the First Amendment right to speak out, but we have the same right to demand facts.
Property Taxes and Value
Another common claim is that we should “never raise property taxes. I fully understand this sentiment and the concept of “no new taxes.” However, the economic power created by the graduates of Rockwall ISD is significant. They are our next generation of first responders, plumbers, electricians, and doctors the very people who may one day save your life. Consider the impact of a highly rated school district like Rockwall ISD on our increasing property values. In other words, increasing our net value.
The Tactics of Misinformation
Unfortunately, some opponents have resorted to personal and possibly libelous attacks against fellow citizens. When they have no actual data to support their positions, they turn to false accusations and character assaults.
Implying that the Vote Yes for Rockwall ISD PAC has engaged in illegal activity is not only baseless but potentially unlawful itself. Despite the complete lack of evidence, these false claims continue to circulate on social media.
Rockwall ISD, on the other hand, has consistently published factual information as allowed and encouraged under state law to counter the alarming amount of misinformation circulating online. The Rockwall ISD Board of Trustees acted responsibly and appropriately by supporting the VATRE, aligning their decision with the district’s long-standing commitment to quality education.
A Lesson from the Founders
In Federalist No. 36, Hamilton noted that the “representatives of the people” are the best judges of how taxes should be distributed because they are directly accountable to the voters. This principle remains foundational to the American concept of taxation with representation.
The Role of the State Legislature
Let’s cut to the chase. The State House of Representatives wanted to increase the per student allocation of $395 dollars with no strings attached, while the state senate only passed $55 per student with strings attached.
Governor Abbott supports school choice and fully funding public education per the Texas constitution. Yes, the state constitution that states:
Section 1 — Support and Maintenance of System of Public Free Schools
A general diffusion of knowledge being essential to the preservation of the liberties and rights of the people, it shall be the duty of the Legislature of the State to establish and make suitable provision for the support and maintenance of an efficient system of public free schools.
Eventually, the Gov signed the $55 increase of the per student allocation.
At its core, Proposition A is not about politics, but it’s about principle. It reflects the timeless conservative belief that strong communities are built when local citizens take responsibility for their own future, not when we wait for Austin to do it for us.
We believe in limited government, but also in effective government, one in which local leaders fulfill their basic duties with integrity and accountability. Providing a high-quality education is one of those core responsibilities, because it equips the next generation to preserve the freedoms our Founders fought for.
Please vote!
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this Op-Ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of The Rockwall Times. We encourage a respectful exchange of perspectives to enrich our community dialogue.
