Celebrate Public Schools
PURPOSE
Fund Schools First is a grassroots collaborative movement of school districts, educators, parents, community leaders, and business allies urging Texas lawmakers to modernize public school funding. Centered around advocating for an enrollment-based funding model rather than the current attendance-based system, the initiative brings clarity to how inflation and funding formulas impact classrooms across the state. It bridges advocacy, outreach, and data to make the case for stable, equitable funding for every student.
OUTREACH
Its supporters include parents, teachers, school administrators, district leaders, business stakeholders, and community organizers across urban, suburban, and rural Texas. Many collaborate on messaging campaigns, local events, and advocacy efforts to raise awareness among both the public and policymakers.
In addition to its formal members, FOTPS collaborates with a network of corporate partners and relies on an Advisory Council and volunteer ambassadors to extend its reach throughout Texas communities.
Fully funding every student.
Advocating for Enrollment-Based Funding
Fund Schools First pushes for a funding model where schools receive full per-student funding regardless of attendance fluctuations—ensuring schools are not penalized for excused absences or other challenges.
Recognizing Champions of Public Education
The group calls on lawmakers to raise the foundational per-student funding rate, which has not kept pace with inflation, to ensure funding truly reflects classroom needs.
Informing Lawmakers and Communities with Clear Data
By providing consistent, accurate information about school finance and the effects of inflation, Fund Schools First equips both policymakers and the public to make informed decisions.