The Public Educators Association of Texas (PEAT) was established on September 1, 2005, under Chapter 791 of the Texas Government Code. This legislation allows public entities to collaborate by pooling their resources to purchase insurance coverage. PEAT was formed specifically to help K12 schools and other educational institutions secure essential coverage such as property, automobile, general liability, and professional liability insurance.
Most insurance pools rely on reinsurance layers with aggregate loss thresholds that don’t cover ALL the pool liabilities. When very large claims occur, they depend on surplus to fund the difference. In fact, a large pool folded a few years back when several large claims required more surplus than what was present.
PEAT has a different approach—a FULLY FUNDED program. Under PEAT’s fully funded model, ALL liabilities (e.g., property, general liability, auto, professional) are funded for that year. A district cannot be assessed, and it is practically impossible for PEAT to declare insolvency.
This model is rarely the least expensive, but it is the very best protection for members.
Claims, especially property claims, are an inherent part of Texas weather. With more frequency and intensity, it is critically important to partner with a program that understands the client, has the proper insurance structure, and, most importantly, pays member claims. PEAT checks all these boxes and has been doing so since 2005.
PEAT remains committed to its founding principles and continues to offer a fully funded insurance program—an approach that continues to set it apart. Today, PEAT stands as one of the most reliable ways to protect school districts and community colleges across Texas.