Q:       This summer, my District would like to hire students to perform grounds work. Are there any restrictions to employing students in this capacity?   A:        Yes, there are restrictions depending upon the age of the student and the duties assigned.            Children 16 and 17 years old may perform any non-hazardous job responsibilities...Read More

Q:        We’ve recently hired a new Superintendent. The school board would like to have dinner with the new Superintendent to get to know him. Since a quorum of the board will be present, do we need to post a public notice to stay compliant with the Open Meetings Act? A:        No. The Act requires public...Read More

Q:       The shooting in Uvalde has us evaluating the scope of our security personnel. Can the District arm volunteers under a guardian plan?  A:        Yes. Neither state nor federal law prohibit non-employees from being authorized through a guardian plan to carry a weapon on campus.  Guardian plans are promulgated pursuant to Texas Penal...Read More

Q:        Our school district is a District of Innovation (DOI) with exemption from all laws related to teacher certification. Historically, the district has relied on the exemption to allow professionals to teach CTE classes; however, due to the teaching shortage, we are going to be forced to utilized noncertified teachers in core instruction. Does our...Read More