Copperas Cove Independent School District (CCISD) has once again received the highest possible rating in the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST), marking its third consecutive year with a perfect score.

The district announced the achievement on Monday, noting that in the 21 years since the Texas Education Agency (TEA) implemented FIRST, CCISD has consistently earned a “Superior” rating. The FIRST system evaluates public school districts and charter schools across Texas on 15 financial indicators, including instructional spending, tax collection rates, student-teacher ratios, and long-term debt management.

“Financial responsibility is incredibly important, not just for the operation of our district, but within the community, as well,” said Superintendent Dr. Brent Hawkins. “Our business office works hard and does a great job at ensuring every dollar in our district is stretched as far as it can go to provide the best opportunities for every Bulldawg.”

CCISD’s business services department has also received consecutive Awards of Merit from the Texas Association of School Business Officials, recognizing its adherence to state purchasing guidelines and overall financial stewardship.

Chief Financial Officer Cliff Heath credited the district’s success to collaboration across departments:

“This work is the result of a collaborative effort from our business office team, department and campus leadership, district administration and the Board of Trustees. We’re confident that the community sees the work that goes into a rating like this and what it does to provide a safe and secure educational environment for every student.”

The district will hold a public hearing to review the rating during its regular October workshop on October 20, 2025, beginning at 6 p.m. in the Board Room at the District Service & Training Center on South Main Street.

For more details on CCISD’s financial operations, visit the Business Services section of the district’s official website.