Notice to Parents and Community

Parents and concerned citizens,

This week, a policy concern was formally raised and reviewed by district administration and the Board of Trustees regarding administrative regulations tied to non-school-sponsored extracurricular events and activities.

As a point of clarification, some organizations such are not sponsored by the UIL, the Board of Trustees, nor sanctioned by board resolution. In alignment with the Texas Education Code (Chapter 25) and Texas Administrative Code (Title 19, Chapter 76.1001), only activities meeting the definition of school-sponsored extracurricular events may qualify for excused absences.

A review of West Sabine ISD Board Policy FM (Student Activities) confirms that no formal board action or policy exists that grants excused absences for participation in these non-UIL, non-sanctioned organizations.

As a result, any student absence incurred while participating in such activities will be subject to standard attendance provisions and counted toward the minimum attendance requirement for credit.

Please note:

• Policy adoption and sanctioning authority rests solely with the Board of Trustees.

• Administrative actions taken this week reflect an effort to ensure alignment with existing policy, state law, and regulatory guidance.

We remain committed to transparency, consistency, and adherence to all governing policies as we serve our students and community.

For questions or further clarification, there is a board meeting on Tuesday, April 28.