Conroe ISD Pushes Back Against UIL Participation for Homeschooled Students

During a recent board meeting, officials from Conroe ISD expressed their strong opposition to a new state policy that would permit homeschooled students to take part in UIL events via public schools. 

A recent policy change, facilitated by Senate Bill 401, empowers local school boards to decide whether to permit non-enrolled students to participate in UIL-sanctioned activities such as athletics, music, debate, and academics.

Interim Superintendent Ted Landry raised important issues regarding staffing and logistics, pointing out that educators who are already managing academic responsibilities alongside coaching roles may encounter further challenges. “We are not ready for a significant surge,” Landry stated. “Our coaches prioritize education, and the current funding may limit our ability to expand our staff.”

While districts permitting homeschool participation obtain $1,500 in state funding for each student, trustees such as Maryanne Horton argue that the expenses surpass the advantages. “It’s unjust to our current students to incorporate individuals from outside the system who are not subject to the same criteria,” she stated.

The Texas High School Coaches Association voiced the district’s worries, cautioning that homeschoolers do not adhere to the standards set by the Texas Education Agency, which encompass attendance and academic eligibility regulations. This, experts argue, leads to an imbalanced situation.

The situation becomes more intricate as state regulations permit homeschoolers to enroll in the closest participating district if their designated district opts out, potentially leading to challenges in enrollment and resource allocation for neighboring schools.

Board President Misty Odenweller voiced her concerns about the region's isolation. “Should we be the sole district to participate, particularly as the largest in the region, we might find ourselves facing considerable pressure,” she stated.

Currently, there are no additional school districts in the Houston area that have chosen to participate.