Round Rock ISD selects Marathon Health to enhance employee wellness and healthcare access

In a pivotal meeting held on June 17, 2025, the Round Rock Independent School District (RRISD) Board of Trustees delved into the pressing issue of employee health care, revealing significant insights into the district's self-funded health insurance model. The discussion highlighted the challenges faced by both the district and its employees as health care costs continue to rise, with expenditures increasing by over 15% since 2021.

The board emphasized the importance of employee well-being, noting that teacher absences due to health issues directly impact student learning. To address these challenges, the district is exploring the establishment of a health and wellness center aimed at improving access to care and reducing costs. A recent employee survey garnered an impressive 1,900 responses in just six days, indicating strong interest in such a facility.

The meeting underscored the limitations of traditional health care models, where long wait times for appointments and inconsistent service delivery have become common frustrations. Board members shared personal anecdotes about their own difficulties in accessing timely medical care, reinforcing the need for a more effective solution.

As part of their strategy, the board outlined four key tenets for the proposed health center: cost containment, convenience, proactive preventative care, and enhanced employee engagement. They noted that nearly half of the claims for preventive care were utilized, but barriers such as appointment availability hindered further engagement.

After a thorough request for proposals (RFP) process, the board announced the selection of Marathon Health as the preferred vendor for the health center. With a strong national presence and a proven track record in the education sector, Marathon Health is expected to provide tailored services that meet the unique needs of RRISD employees.

The board's commitment to improving employee health care reflects a broader understanding of its impact on both staff and students. As they move forward with the health center initiative, the district aims to foster a healthier workforce, ultimately benefiting the entire educational community.