Unlocking Opportunity: What Texas Education Code Chapter 48 Means for Campus Funding and Student Programs

Campus leaders and educators know that funding plays a central role in student success. Yet many may not realize how Texas Education Code Chapter 48—which governs the Foundation School Program (FSP)—can directly empower schools to expand academic offerings, enrich student services, and support innovation. 

Chapter 48 outlines how the state distributes public school funding. Understanding it helps teachers and administrators advocate for resources that can significantly enhance campus programming. 

📘 Read the full statute here: Texas Education Code Chapter 48 – Foundation School Program 

Key Provisions Campus Leaders Should Know 

1. Basic Allotment and Adjustments (Section 48.051) 

The Basic Allotment is the cornerstone of public school funding. As of the last legislative update, schools receive $6,160 per student, which can be adjusted based on factors like district size, sparsity, and teacher compensation. These adjustments provide campuses with more flexibility in hiring qualified staff and offering competitive salaries. 

2. Special Allotments for Program Expansion 

Chapter 48 includes targeted allotments that reward campuses for expanding specific student programs: 

• Career and Technology Education (CTE) Allotment (Sec. 48.106): Schools receive additional funding for students enrolled in approved CTE courses—especially when paired with industry certifications or dual credit options. This can help campuses build robust vocational pathways. 

• Bilingual Education Allotment (Sec. 48.105): Campuses serving English learners are eligible for extra funding that can be used for dual-language programs, hiring ESL-certified staff, and supplemental instructional materials. 

• Gifted and Talented Allotment (Sec. 48.104): Although temporarily suspended, recent discussions in the legislature suggest possible reinstatement. Schools should stay informed and be ready to advocate for GT funding. 

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3. Compensatory Education Allotment (Sec. 48.104) 

This allotment supports students identified as educationally disadvantaged. It can be used for intervention programs, tutoring, counseling, and technology access—giving schools the leverage to close performance gaps. 

Why It Matters 

With Chapter 48’s provisions, campus administrators have real tools to expand student programming—from advanced academics to technical education. For example, a school that builds a certified welding program under CTE guidelines could receive significant additional funding that supports equipment, teacher training, and student transportation. 

Recent legislative updates also highlight the importance of accountability. Schools must use funds for their intended purposes, and detailed reporting is now part of the compliance process (TEA Funding Handbook). 

Final Thoughts 

Texas Education Code Chapter 48 isn’t just about dollars—it’s about possibilities. For educators and administrators, it offers a framework to secure funding aligned with student needs and future-readiness. By leveraging special allotments and advocating for smart resource use, schools can build innovative, inclusive, and equitable programming that benefits every learner.