Keller Independent School District trustees voted 4‑3 to adopt a resolution implementing Senate Bill 401 that permits resident non‑enrolled students (commonly homeschooled students who live in the district) to participate in UIL activities on behalf of Keller ISD.
The board’s resolution directs the administration to develop specific participation guidelines before the district will accept applications and to limit extra administrative burden. "The recommendation will be accompanied by strict guidelines for participation to ensure there is minimal additional administrative burden on staff," Superintendent Doctor Wilson said.
Why it matters: SB401 requires districts to allow resident non‑enrolled students to participate in UIL activities unless a district formally opts out. The board’s vote means Keller ISD will default to allowing participation but will have locally set rules and procedures for how and when students may join teams, ensembles and academic squads.
The decision followed more than an hour of public comment and trustee discussion. Supporters said resident non‑enrolled students are taxpayers and should have access to school activities with appropriate safeguards. "They're taxpayers like anyone else," Trustee Heather said during debate, urging inclusivity. Several speakers recounted individual circumstances where homeschool students sought access to athletics or fine arts; one coach reported a homeschooled athlete was participating successfully under the pilot procedures.
Opponents warned of administrative burden and potential impacts to class sizes and instructional staff. "Our teachers are already juggling larger classes," resident Richard Gottlieber told the board, suggesting the district should not add supervisory responsibilities without staff input and support. Trustee Brett Burt urged caution, noting districts across Texas have chosen to opt out; he argued the board should not move hastily without full analysis.
Board members agreed on a key procedural safeguard: no applications will be considered until the administration finalizes written guidelines that address workload, tryout timing, caps where appropriate and residency verification. Administration told the board it must notify UIL of Keller ISD’s position by Sept. 1, creating a statutory deadline that contributed to the decision timeline.
The board split 4‑3 in favor of full UIL participation (athletics, fine arts and academic competitions) under district guidelines. The administration will return with the draft participation rules and operational details for board review.
Direct quotes in this article come from board members and public commenters recorded in the meeting transcript.