Clarendon Consolidated Independent School District has earned a perfect score of 100 on the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST), the state's highest rating of Superior Achievement for financial management.
The achievement places Clarendon CISD among approximately one in three Texas school districts that achieve a perfect FIRST score. The rating is based on analysis of the district's financial data for fiscal year 2025 and reflects the district's management of public funds, budget accuracy, cash management practices, and compliance with audit requirements.
"Achieving a perfect score on the FIRST system demonstrates that we're managing taxpayer dollars responsibly," said Superintendent Byron May. "This rating tells our community that Clarendon ISD is committed to ensuring every dollar supports our students' educational experience and operational excellence."
The Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas evaluates 21 performance indicators, including the district's ability to meet financial obligations, accuracy of financial reporting to the state, internal control systems, and fund balance management.
A perfect FIRST score requires rigorous compliance across multiple financial management dimensions. Districts must demonstrate timely and accurate financial reporting, clean audit results with no material weaknesses in internal controls, sound cash management practices, accurate budget forecasting, and careful stewardship of fund balances.
May credited the district's financial team and external partners for the achievement. "This rating is a reflection of our entire Business Office," May said. "I want to specifically recognize Cheryl Johnson, Sarah Emerson, and Diana Clawson from the Texas School Finance Center, whose guidance and expertise have been invaluable in helping us all understand and meet these rigorous financial standards."
The preliminary rating will become final on September 9, 2026, unless the district files an appeal. Clarendon CISD is required to hold a public meeting within two months of the final rating to present a financial management report to the community.
"Sound financial management is foundational to everything we do," May noted. "It allows us to invest in our schools, support our staff, and create opportunities for our Broncos to succeed."
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About Clarendon Consolidated Independent School District
Clarendon CISD is a Class 2A school district serving Donley County, Texas, with a comprehensive PreK-12 program dedicated to academic excellence, student growth, and community engagement. The district is recognized for fostering a culture of achievement across the classroom and on the athletic field, with programs designed to develop well-rounded students who are prepared for success in college, career, and civic life. Through rigorous academics, championship-caliber athletics, meaningful extracurricular opportunities, and strong family-school partnerships, Clarendon CISD empowers students to reach their full potential and make positive contributions to their communities.
About the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST)
FIRST is designed by the Texas Education Agency to ensure school districts are held accountable for the quality of their financial management practices and to encourage continuous improvement. The system assigns ratings of A (Superior Achievement, 90-100 points), B (Above Standard Achievement, 80-89 points), C (Meets Standard Achievement, 70-79 points), or F (Substandard Achievement, below 70 points).
Email: bmay@clarendonisd.net