October 23, 2026 Parent News
McKinney ISD earns Superior Rating on TEA's Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas
McKinney ISD has earned the Superior Achievement rating from the Texas Education Agency's School Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST) for the 2025-2026 school year. It marks the 23rd time in 24 years that the district has earned the highest possible rating.
"This achievement reflects our ongoing commitment to financial integrity, transparency and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars," said Dr. Dennis Womack, assistant superintendent of business operations. "We believe that managing resources with integrity and openness builds trust within our community and demonstrates our accountability to those we serve."
FIRST, established by the 77th Texas Legislature in 2001, drives school systems to enhance financial resources to provide the maximum allocation possible for direct instructional purposes. The ratings are based on annual financial reports submitted by school systems to TEA for the 2025 fiscal year. The reports are subsequently reviewed by the agency and a rating is assigned.
Each school system receives a letter grade (A, B, C, or F) in the financial accountability ratings, along with a coinciding financial management rating: Superior Achievement, Above Standard Achievement, Meets Standard Achievement or Substandard Achievement.
FIRST ratings are calculated using 21 financial indicators for both traditional school districts and public charter schools, such as administrative cost expenditures; the accuracy of a district or charter school’s financial information submitted to TEA; and any financial vulnerabilities or material weaknesses in internal controls as determined by an external auditor.
All Texas public school systems are required to share their financial accountability ratings with parents and taxpayers at a public meeting to discuss the financial report. Marlene Harbeson, Chief Financial Officer, reported the district's rating during the October 19, 2026, meeting of the MISD Board of Trustees.
McKinney ISD Earns Overall ‘A’ Grade from Niche, Recognizing Academic Excellence and College Preparation
McKinney Independent School District is proud to announce that it has received an overall grade of ‘A’ from Niche, a trusted school and district rating platform. This recognition reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence, student support, and community engagement.
The ‘A’ grade from Niche is based on a comprehensive analysis of academic performance, student and parent reviews, and various measures of quality, including teacher qualifications, resources, and extracurricular activities. McKinney ISD’s outstanding performance in these areas demonstrates the district’s dedication to fostering a positive learning environment where every student can succeed.
“We are proud to receive this recognition from Niche for the third year in a row,” said Shawn Pratt, Superintendent of McKinney ISD. “This grade is a testament to the hard work of our teachers, staff, and administrators, as well as the support of our families and community members. Our focus remains on providing a high-quality education for all students.”
Niche grades are determined by a variety of factors, including test scores, college readiness, graduation rates, and the feedback of students and parents. McKinney ISD’s commitment to maintaining small class sizes, offering a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and providing opportunities in arts, athletics, and career and technical education have all contributed to this high rating.
In addition to the overall ‘A’ grade, McKinney ISD earned high marks in specific categories such as academics, college prep, diversity, sports, and college readiness. These ratings highlight the district’s strength in preparing students for future success both in college and beyond.
As McKinney ISD continues to grow, this recognition serves as a reminder of the district’s vision of every student, every day. With a focus on continuous improvement, McKinney ISD remains dedicated to providing every student with the tools they need to reach their full potential.
For more information about McKinney ISD and the district’s programs, visit www.mckinneyisd.net.
Niche.com compiles its annual rankings using data from the U.S. Department of Education, student and parent surveys, test scores, and teacher quality metrics.
Trunk or Treat
Join us for McKinney Boyd High School’s Trunk or Treat on October 27 from 5–7 p.m. in the North Parking Lot (baseball field).
This free, fun, and safe trick-or-treating event is open to the McKinney community.
