The Rockwall Independent School District (ISD) held a special Board of Trustees meeting on August 4, 2025, primarily to discuss updates to the student handbook and to consider the approval of the consent agenda.

The meeting began with an informational item regarding significant changes to the student handbook. It was noted that while there is no annual requirement for the handbook's approval under the education code, several substantial updates were highlighted. Key changes include:

1. **Lesson Plans**: Teachers are now required to provide a copy of their lesson plans or instructional plans for each class, with the curriculum department working to ensure compliance.

2. **Parental Consent for Clubs**: A new state law mandates that written parental consent is needed before a student can participate in any district-authorized or sponsored club. Clarification is still pending on whether this consent is a one-time requirement or needs to be obtained for each individual club.

3. **Health-Related Services**: The district must notify parents about health-related services offered at schools. Guidance is awaited from the state regarding the extent of parental permission required for minor health interventions, such as applying a band-aid.

4. **Firearm Safety**: The handbook includes a requirement to inform parents annually about the safe storage of firearms, with additional resources available on the district's safety and security webpage.

5. **Disciplinary Actions**: A reminder was included regarding disciplinary actions for students who prop open doors, which could create safety risks.

6. **Library Access**: Parents are informed of their right to access the library management system, Destiny, to monitor their children's book checkouts and the library's inventory.

Following the presentation of these updates, the board opened the floor for questions. A query was raised about whether parents could access the library system preemptively, to which it was confirmed that they can access it at any time.

The meeting proceeded to the consent agenda, which included the approval of minutes from a previous special session, personnel matters, and the School Health Advisory Council for the 2025-26 school year. A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by board member Amy Hilton and seconded by Stan Britton. The motion passed with a vote of 6 in favor and 1 member absent.

In summary, the meeting addressed important updates to the student handbook and successfully approved the consent agenda, ensuring that the district remains compliant with new state regulations while enhancing communication with parents regarding student safety and resources.