Mike R. Waldrip, Superintendent Frisco Independent School District | friscoisd.org
Frisco Independent School District (FISD) has introduced the Access Frisco program, allowing students from kindergarten to seventh grade in neighboring areas to attend Frisco schools starting in the 2025-26 academic year. This initiative aims to utilize available space due to a plateau or decline in enrollment in some district areas, while also generating revenue for district operations.
Applications for the program will open in December and will be limited to specific campuses. Priority applications are accepted from December 16 to January 10, followed by regular applications from January 14 to January 24. The program is designed to optimize existing resources without incurring additional costs by selecting campuses with lower-than-optimal enrollment.
Albert Leal, managing director of student services, stated, “We’re committed to ensuring every student has the chance to thrive in a supportive and innovative learning environment.” He emphasized that the program is carefully designed for efficient growth while maintaining FISD's unique qualities.
Enrollment will depend on space availability and eligibility criteria, including attendance, academic performance, and behavior standards. The program aims to optimize campus resources, promote sustainable enrollment growth, strengthen community connections, and generate additional revenue for district operations.
Kimberly Smith, chief finance and strategy officer, explained that FISD receives extra revenue through the state's funding formula for each new student enrolled. "By strategically placing new students where space is available," she said, "we can generate substantial revenue while avoiding extra costs." She noted that enrolling 100 students could bring approximately $750,000 in funding.
Access Frisco reflects FISD's commitment to providing exceptional opportunities for students and fostering a diverse community.