OISD Opts Out of Homeschool Sports

The Olney Independent School District Board of Trustees chose to opt out of a new state program that would allow homeschooled students to participate in UIL athletic and academic programs at public schools.

Senate Bill 401, which passed during the most recent legislative session, automatically enrolls all Texas school districts in the program unless they formally opt out by September 1. Superintendent Matt Caffey recommended the board vote to decline participation this year, citing concerns over accountability, funding, and fairness to enrolled students.

“This is using resources of the district, and [homeschooled students] already have their voucher,” Caffey said. “It’s a lack of accountability for students who are participating.”

Trustee Reid Miller agreed, adding, “I think ultimately opting out is probably the best option. It could encourage students not to enroll in school and still get to play sports. That doesn’t seem aligned with our mission in public education.”

Board members expressed concern that allowing homeschooled students to compete in UIL activities might unintentionally incentivize families to withdraw from the public school system. Since the state does not provide full funding for students who are not enrolled at least half-time, Olney ISD would lose out on state funding while still providing access to costly programs like athletics Trustees raised questions about how the program would affect staffing and logistics. “You can’t require them to attend a full day, and we can’t charge them anything beyond what enrolled students pay,” Board president Summer Branum said the short notice from the state left little time to fully assess the impact or develop a fair implementation plan.

“I think it’s fair to go ahead and opt out for this year and then reconsider in the future when we’ve had time to think through how it would actually work,” she said.

The board noted that while no homeschooled students are actively requesting UIL access at this time, one student had inquired about it the previous year before deciding not to pursue the option.

The vote to opt out does not permanently bar Olney ISD from participating.

Under current law, districts must revisit the decision annually, meaning the board could revisit the topic next year with more preparation.