Texas Public Policy Foundation Alert: DIVIDE ISD – Thursday, September 17, 2026 [9ca0abda]

Texas Public Policy Foundation

Heads up, taxpayers and parents: We’ve audited the upcoming DIVIDE ISD agenda. There are 2 items targeting parental consent and taxpayer funds that need your immediate attention before the gavel falls.

⚠️ Warning (LEVEL 7)

Property Tax Rate Vote Lacks Key Context

📅 Scheduled Action

The board will vote to set the 2026 property tax rate at $0.61280 per $100 of value. The agenda provides this rate but omits the ‘no-new-revenue’ rate, preventing taxpayers from knowing if this vote is a hidden tax increase driven by rising property appraisals.

Response

DEMAND TRANSPARENCY: Contact the District Office (see the Official Agenda link) before the meeting. Ask: ‘Regarding Item 7.A, please publicly state the no-new-revenue rate and the voter-approval rate next to the proposed rate so taxpayers can see the true impact on their bills.’

💰 Impact: Potential Property Tax Increase

🚩Watchlist (LEVEL 5)

District Seeks Waiver to Avoid Pre-K Partnerships

📅 Scheduled Action

The Superintendent is asking for authorization to seek a waiver from a state requirement to partner with high-quality private prekindergarten providers. This action could limit options for parents and allow the district to keep state funds for in-house programs that may be less effective or efficient.

Response

ASK FOR THE DATA: Contact the Superintendent’s office regarding Item 7.E. Ask: ‘Why is the district seeking to bypass the pre-K partnership rule? Please provide the data showing the in-house program is a better value for taxpayers and students than partnering with existing providers.’

💰 Impact: Reduced Pre-K Program Options

District Info

Address

120 DIVIDE SCHOOL RD, MOUNTAIN HOME, TX 78058

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