The number-crunchers in HISD’s Office of Budgeting and Financial Planning have a lot on their plate on the average day, but since the COVID-19 pandemic, the change in metric for what we prioritize as individuals and as a community has created all new challenges for them to rise to.

As we adjust to our new normal, it is more important than ever that HISD’s budget is curated in a transparent and detailed way that clearly communicates the goals and urgencies of the district. With these objectives in mind, HISD submitted its budget presentation for consideration for the Meritorious Budget Award (MBA) and was awarded the title for the 2022-2023 fiscal year.

This award is given to district presentations that meet the strict requirements of the program. Proposals must be accurate, detailed, and—most importantly—a vehicle for building reliability and trust within the community.

The proposals are rigorously reviewed by school business professionals who have undergone criteria-specific training from Association of School Business Officials International and are uniquely qualified to judge the merit of the materials.

This accolade is an indication of HISD’s commitment to upholding nationally recognized standards for budgetary excellence and the continued upward trajectory of the district as a well-oiled machine. Success is measured in results, and as HISD continues its dedicated support of its students, this honor is another important step in establishing trust and confidence with the communities it serves.