McDade Independent School District McDade Independent School District, the smallest of the four districts in Bastrop County, is clearly a unique district. Though small districts normally have high administration costs per student, McDade spends 55.3 cents per education dollar in the classroom–the highest of those districts reviewed in Bastrop County, and above the state average of 52 cents. The district is to be commended for holding the line on costs so that students and teachers have the resources they need to be successful. It is no wonder that this district is a source of pride to the McDade community.
McDade’s 210 students in kindergarten through grade 7 present their own set of unique challenges and opportunities. My Texas School Performance Review (TSPR) found the district to be well-run, a place where students, parents and staff were satisfied with the education being offered. The district has shown steady improvements in student performance, exhibited tight internal controls, held the line on costs and achieved efficiencies through streamlined procedures.
Like any good district, McDade ISD still has room for improvement. For example, my review found a need for planning and coordination throughout the district, particularly in light of its plans to expand to grade 8 and, possibly, all the way to grade 12.
Planning for this growth can be exciting but must be done with great care since growth brings with it a need for additional funds, staff, supplies, facilities and facility improvements.
One of my 10 Principles for Texas in the 21st Century is to drive more of every education dollar directly into the classroom. My Texas School Performance Review (TSPR) team has developed 19 recommendations that, if fully implemented, could result in net savings of $14,530 over the next five years. But more importantly, this review provides the district some solid management techniques for achieving its own goals and objectives.
I am confident that school board members, school administrators, teachers and parents are all committed to making McDade ISD the best it can be for their students, now and into the future.
Carole Keeton Rylander
Comptroller of Public Accounts
