Royal Independent School District is urging community members to get informed and participate in the upcoming Attendance Credit Election. This election will determine how the district fulfills its state-mandated wealth “recapture”, also known as Robin Hood, which redistributes local tax wealth to support equitable school funding across Texas.
The election presents two options for voters:
A Vote FOR allows RISD to fulfill its recapture obligation by purchasing Attendance Credit, ensuring local control of its tax base, and a stable or potentially lower tax rate.
A Vote AGAINST would result in the permanent detachment of commercial properties from the district, leading to a potential tax rate increase, reduced funding for school operations, and reduced bonding capacity. With the decrease in bonding capacity comes a diminished ability to address the enrollment growth Royal ISD is experiencing. Additionally, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) has not yet released which, if any, taxpaying entities would be detached if the election fails, adding uncertainty about the potential financial impact on the district.
With major local taxpayers—including the Ross Dress for Less distribution center ($349.6M in taxable value), Empire West Industrial Park ($167.2M in taxable value), and Jordan Ranch development ($103.5M in taxable value)—playing a key role in district funding, the election’s outcome will significantly impact RISD’s financial future. The total tax-assessed value of the top ten taxpayers is $1.17 billion, representing approximately 29.02% of Royal ISD’s tax base.
Royal ISD encourages all eligible voters to learn the facts, share with others, and participate in the election.
Key Dates and Resources:
Community Town Hall #1: April 10, 2025, 6-7PM, Royal Early Childhood Center
Community Town Hall #2: April 14, 2025, 6-7PM, Royal Early Childhood Center
Community Town Hall #3: April 29, 2025, 6-7PM, Royal Early Childhood Center
Early Voting: April 22 – April 29
Election Day: Saturday, May 3
Understanding the Attendance Credit Election and Its Impact on Royal ISD
For voting locations and additional details, visit VoteTexas.gov. Your voice matters! Make an informed decision and cast your vote in the upcoming RISD Attendance Credit Election. Please reach out to RISD at communications@royal-isd.net or 281.934.6940 with any questions or to schedule a presentation for your organization.