Why Some Texas Schools Are Saying ‘No’ to Homeschool Athletes
The new school year is off to a rocky start here in El Paso, Texas.
First, an El Paso school made national headlines by banning students from wearing all black citing that it’s not good for their mental health.
And now school districts are banning homeschooled students ALL TOGETHER. Well, at least when it comes to extracurricular activities.
“Tim Tebow Bill”
In 2021, Texas passed HB547, known as the "Tim Tebow Bill," which offers homeschooled students a chance to join public school activities like sports and arts.
The law was inspired by Tim Tebow's high school football success as a homeschooler, but it seems like El Paso districts have decided to opt out of this law, leaving many homeschoolers and their parent’s wondering, Why?!
Homeschooled students and their parents want answers:
KFOX TV spoke with not only homeschooled students impacted by this law but they also reached out to local school district officials to ask why they came to this decision and the main reason was, funding.
"State funding doesn't cover homeschooled students, making it hard to justify extra expenses," Dr. Juan Martinez, superintendent of Clint ISD.
Aside from the funding issue, other local school districts cited other reasons as to why they opted out of the law:
"Ysleta ISD has elected not to allow non-enrolled (home-schooled) students to participate during the 2024-2025 school year. This is a local school district decision not under UIL jurisdiction.Ysleta ISD values the integrity and fairness of our athletic programs. By restricting sports/fine arts participation to enrolled students, we ensure that all participants adhere to the same academic and conduct standards, fostering a cohesive team environment. Additionally, this policy simplifies eligibility tracking and resource allocation, allowing us to maintain a high-quality experience for our students."
You can read statements from all of the local schools districts here.
Only 25 of the 1,200 Texas districts embracing the bill, the debate continues.
Some districts, like Anthony ISD, allow participation, but El Paso's major districts remain firm in their stance.
What do you think about this issue? Send us your thoughts through the KISSFM Mobile App.
HERE’S WHAT EL PASOANS THINK OF THIS TOPIC:
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