20 Ways the Finance Committee Serves TEF
Tomball Education Foundation was established in 2018 as an IRS-designated 501(c)(3), which means it’s a tax-exempt, nonprofit organization. The foundation depends on donations from Tomball-area residents and businesses. Volunteer-workers and sponsored funding support TEF’s mission to help educators provide innovative learning adventures beyond Tomball Independent School District’s basic budget.
TEF committees are crucial to ensuring operational efficiency. Committees are the lifeblood of TEF sustainability and mission fulfillment. Who is responsible for TEF’s financial management? As it turns out, everyone within the organization:
- Accountant – Compiles financial statements, keeps records audit-ready, reconciles accounts, and manages grants
- Board of directors – Develops financial policies, approves the annual budget, monitors financial performance, and assists with the finance committee’s strategic plan
- Leadership team – Solicits donations, oversees the annual budget process, provides the board of directors with financial reports, and mitigates financial risk
- Volunteers serve on financial committee, maintain diligence regarding budget limitations, and facilitate fundraising initiatives
Volunteers donate their time, which lowers overhead costs and increases financial sustainability. However, it is the finance committee that takes ultimate responsibility for stewardship and active management of financial resources.
A nonprofit’s finance committee ensures its membership is informed about the organization’s financial status. The committee is knowledgeable about and follows financial policies and procedures, providing expertise and oversight in managing the organization’s resources.
TEF’s finance committee:
- Analyzes financial performance & identifies financial trends
- Communicates financial positions and policies to the board
- Creates long-term financial goals
- Develops/reviews financial statements
- Ensures compliance with financial regulations
- Ensures financial reports are timely and accurate to assist the board in making informed decisions
- Estimates annual expenses
- Forecasts/reviews revenue projections
- Helps board members understand financial complexities and their impacts
- Identifies/advises on financial policies and risks
- Is accountable for transparency regarding internal controls, assets, policies, and procedures
- Makes board recommendations to the membership on financial matters
- Monitors budgets
- Organizes financial training sessions if needed to promote financial literacy
- Oversees investments
- Provides knowledgeable financial oversight
- Recommends investments if appropriate
- Regularly reviews reports/financial statements
- Supervises audit process and interacts with auditors
- Works with the board to develop annual and event budgets
Financial stability enables the Tomball Education Foundation to provide more opportunities for our students. The finance committee is critical to TEF’s overall health.
Tomball High School Class of 1977 and University of Texas alumnus Frank Hicks serves as the Finance Vice President for TEF. He’s a sixth-generation Texan and retired petroleum engineer who loves Tomball and takes pride in being able to give back to TISD as a founding member of the Tomball Education Foundation.
No Foolin’: Tomball’s State of the District Is Flying High!
On April 1, 2026, you can make sure your tray tables and seat backs are in their full upright and locked positions. Then, fasten your seat belts, because Tomball Independent School District is traveling full speed ahead as Texas’ destination district for student learning opportunities. TISD and Tomball Education Foundation are hoping you’ll join the adventure.
The TISD State of the District 2026 is scheduled for April 1, 2026, 8:00-10:00 a.m., at the Tomball Agricultural Center (11211 Farm to Market 2920, Tomball, TX 77375). Our award-winning superintendent, Dr. Martha Salazar-Zamora will highlight our schools’ progress and plans as the event speaker.
Tomball’s enrollment growth has led to increased operational costs and the addition of two new campuses. Economic challenges and financial needs will be offset by a state funding increase of $11.8 million, the first time TISD will adopt a budget in which state support is more than 50% of total funding.
Spring is a busy season for TEF! Our Stuff The Bus Spring Drive kicks off April 6 – April 17, 2026. Board meetings will be May 6 and June 3.
Tomball ISD continues to win awards and receive recognition for outstanding scholastic outcomes. And Tomball Education Foundation needs your help. Contact us today, and let’s explore the opportunities.
FAQs
Two frequently asked questions we receive about TEF include:
You are not only eligible; you are encouraged to attend. You’ll hear about the successes and challenges our schools, students, and educators face. You’ll learn how Tomball-area students can benefit from your support. This event is limited to TISD employees and/or parents, Tomball community members and/or residents, Tomball seniors and/or taxpayers, and people like you.
Registration is required. We hope to see you there!
