The Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) proudly recognized McAllen Independent School District for excellence in budget presentation with the Meritorious Budget Award (MBA) for fiscal year 2025–26, winning the award for the 9th straight year (2018-26).
This award was previously recognized by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) and known as the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award (2015-17).
ASBO International’s MBA and introductory Pathway to the MBA programs promote and recognize excellence in school budget presentation. Program participation enhances school business officials’ skills in developing, analyzing, and presenting a school system budget. Participants submit their budget documents to a panel of school financial professionals who review the materials for compliance with the MBA Criteria Checklist and other requirements and provide expert feedback that districts can use to improve their budget documents.
Districts that meet the stringent program requirements may earn either the MBA or Pathway to the MBA (Pathway). Pathway is an introductory program that allows districts to ease into full MBA compliance.
“Presenting a budget that is both accessible and accurate is crucial for school districts to clearly communicate and build trust with their communities,” Jim Rowan, CAE, SFO, ASBO International Executive Director, said. “The Meritorious Budget Award program provides districts with the resources and tools to do just that, and the districts that receive the award are recognized for their commitment to upholding nationally recognized budget presentation standards.”
McAllen ISD has won several major awards in recent years for its sound fiscal practices. These include:
· The Certificate of Achievement in Excellence in Financial Reporting by Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the 14th consecutive fiscal year (2010-23). The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.
· Earning the state’s highest mark by TEA’s School FIRST (Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas), 22 times in 23 years (including 18 perfect scores, four in a row through 2025).
· Maintaining a high credit rating from a major credit-rating service (Moody’s).
· Earned Transparency Stars from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts in Debt Obligations for exemplary efforts in creating financial transparency around public debt and the Transparency Star in the area of traditional finances for exemplary efforts in creating financial transparency around public services and spending decisions.
· Awarded the Achievement of Excellence in Procurement (AEP) for the 11th time in 12 fiscal years (2013-18, 2020-24) from the National Procurement Institute, Inc. This is an international award (US & Canada).
· The Texas Association of School Business Officials (TASBO) has presented the Award of Merit for Purchasing Operations to McAllen ISD six times including the last three consecutive years. The Award of Merit recognizes Texas school districts that are committed to following professional standards in the acquisition of goods and services. McAllen ISD has won this award in 2013-15 and 2020-23.
About McAllen ISD
McAllen ISD is a 2025 winner of the state’s highest rating of an “A” grade and a 2025 winner of the state’s Postsecondary Readiness Distinction. The district is home to 31 campuses and approximately 19,500 students. To learn more about McAllen ISD’s schools and programs, contact Student Outreach at 956-687-MISD (6473).
About ASBO International
Founded in 1910, the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) is a nonprofit organization that, through its members and affiliates, represents approximately 30,000 school business professionals worldwide. ASBO International is committed to providing programs, services, and a global network that promote the highest standards in school business.
Its members support student achievement through effective resource management in various areas ranging from finance and operations to food services and transportation. Learn more at asbointl.org.