The Vidor Independent School District Board of Trustees on July 28 voted to table action on a resolution that would prohibit non‑enrolled students—commonly described in testimony as homeschool and private‑school students—from participating in University Interscholastic League (UIL) and district extracurricular activities.

The move followed five public commentators who urged the board to allow non‑enrolled students to participate. The board voted 4‑1 to postpone consideration, saying it wanted additional legal and logistical information and time for absent members to review the issue.

Public comment drew contrasting arguments about equity, funding and student opportunity. Chad Vandevender, a teacher of 32 years, warned that allowing non‑enrolled students into UIL events could reduce opportunities and local funding for district students and staff, saying, “Please don't take that advantage away from us.”

Several parents and homeschool advocates told the board the change would increase local participation and could bring revenue. Wendy Glenn, who said she organizes a local homeschool group, told trustees, “I am here to actually ask you guys to allow homeschoolers to participate in UIL.” Attorney Cody Reese cited state language and funding tied to the statute and said the district would receive $1,500 “per student, per activity in which they participate,” if it opts in. Nicholas Wright referenced legislation removing an earlier procedure for artificially reclassifying schools, saying HB 699 requires the same enrollment calculation be used for schools that allow non‑enrolled students.

Board members emphasized they were not rejecting either position but needed more details. Trustee Camp moved to table the resolution and Trustee White seconded. The motion passed 4 in favor, 1 opposed; two trustees were absent. The board chair said the item will return at the next regular meeting with additional counsel and logistics for consideration.

The decision to table was procedural; the board did not adopt a new policy and made no change to UIL eligibility at this meeting. Trustees asked staff to compile legal analysis, funding projections and sample policies used in other districts before the item returns.

What happens next: the resolution and associated local policy language will be revisited at the board’s next meeting after staff provides additional information. Public comment and written material submitted to the board during this meeting will be maintained in meeting records.