Texas Compensatory Education Allotment
Eligibility
All Texas districts automatically receive compensatory education funding based on the number of at-risk students enrolled. Texas defines at-risk students broadly - most districts have a significant share of students who qualify. Funding flows through the Foundation School Program automatically.
- Eligible: All Texas districts with at-risk students enrolled
- At-risk criteria are broad and include many student populations
- Automatic funding - no competitive application required
- Funds must be used to support at-risk student needs
Who Are At-Risk Students?
Texas defines at-risk students broadly. The list includes students who are failing courses, have limited English proficiency, are pregnant or parenting, are in foster care, are homeless, have been placed in alternative programs, or are over-age for their grade. Most districts have many students who meet one or more of these criteria.
Program Goals
Texas provides extra funding for students considered at risk of dropping out or falling behind. The 0.225 additional weight per qualifying student generates meaningful additional revenue for districts with large at-risk populations. Funds must be used to support the educational needs of these students.
Hands-on, project-based learning tools that help at-risk students engage and succeed are well within the allowed uses of this funding.
Funding Distribution
At the base allotment of ~$6,160 per pupil, the 0.225 compensatory education weight adds roughly $1,386 per qualifying at-risk student. A district with 500 at-risk students generates approximately $693,000 in additional annual compensatory education funding.
Allowable Purchases
Compensatory education funds must support at-risk student needs. Enrichment tools, after-school programs, tutoring, and instructional materials that improve engagement and achievement qualify.
Forward Education Tools That Qualify
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micro:bit Classroom Kits
Hands-on, project-based learning tools that improve engagement for students who struggle in traditional classroom settings. Research supports project-based approaches for at-risk student populations. -
MicroChat AI Literacy Kit
Accessible AI literacy curriculum with low barriers to entry. Gives at-risk students exposure to high-demand technology skills they might not otherwise encounter. -
Coding for Climate Kit
Environmental coding with real-world relevance. Engages at-risk students by connecting coding to issues that matter in their communities.
Keep in Mind
Many campus leaders don't know exactly how much compensatory education funding their district receives. Ask your district's finance office - the number may surprise you and open up purchasing options.
21st CCLC after-school programs can be funded with compensatory education dollars. If you already have an after-school program serving at-risk students, these funds can pay for STEM enrichment tools.
When purchasing with compensatory education funds, document which at-risk students will use the tools and how the tools support their specific needs. This creates a clear compliance trail.
Compensatory education funds and Title I often target overlapping populations. Coordinate your spending with your district's federal programs office to maximize both funding streams.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals. We can help you connect our tools to your grant requirements.
- Curriculum alignment documents - TEKS and state standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing - classroom sets, bundles, and multi-site pricing
- Letters of support - documentation for grant applications
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence - ready-to-use program outlines
Download the Forward Education Grant Guide
Our grant guide helps educators find the right funding sources and build strong applications for STEM and coding programs.
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