a decorative graphic advertising the Melissa ISD 2020-2021 fiscal report rating

For the nineteenth consecutive year, Melissa ISD has earned a superior rating according to state fiscal accountability guidelines, as determined by the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST). The superior rating is the highest of four possible rating levels.

The FIRST report measures the overall financial health of the school district based on 20 different indicators – an increase from 15 indicators in the past – as determined by Melissa ISD’s external audit firm, and reported to the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

Lance Rainey, Chief Financial Officer, presented a summary of the 2020-2021 Melissa ISD FIRST Report at the regularly scheduled Board of Trustees meeting on Dec. 13, 2021. The report can be accessed online at the following link: Required Financial Postings.

Mr. Rainey shared, “We are very grateful for the continued leadership and guidance of the Melissa Schools Board of Trustees during these particularly challenging times. This achievement is another example of how Melissa ISD students greatly benefit from the wide range of expertise that is represented on our school board.”

From the Texas Education Agency: “The state's school financial accountability rating system, known as the School Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST), ensures that Texas public schools are held accountable for the quality of their financial management practices and that they improve those practices. The system is designed to encourage Texas public schools to better manage their financial resources to provide the maximum allocation possible for direct instructional purposes.”