Compensatory Education

Compensatory Education

Compensatory education is a state-funded program that supports students who are at risk of academic failure or dropping out of school. In Texas, including within McKinney ISD (MISD), the program aims to reduce disparities in academic performance and graduation rates between at-risk students and their peers. Services funded through compensatory education are supplemental to the regular education program and are designed to help students catch up and succeed. These services may include small group instruction, tutoring, mentoring, summer school, or additional staffing to reduce class sizes. The support is based on each campus's needs and must be part of the school's improvement plan.

MISD uses compensatory education funds strategically to support programs such as eHigh, Serenity High, alternative education campuses like CRC and DAEP, and mentoring services. MISD monitors and evaluates these services annually to ensure they are effective in improving student outcomes.For parents, it is important to know that children qualify for compensatory education based on state-defined criteria for being “at-risk,” which may include failing grades, excessive absences, or other factors. Students with disabilities must also meet one of these criteria to receive compensatory services. MISD works hard to ensure that parents are engaged and informed, and schools often include parent involvement activities funded by these programs. Parents are encouraged to participate in their child’s educational planning, attend school meetings, and communicate regularly with teachers to support academic growth. Together, families and schools can provide the critical support needed to help every child succeed.

More information about compensatory education is available in our district and campus improvement documents