In compliance with new state laws, the Cy-Fair ISD board of trustees approved several policy changes Aug. 11 during its last regular meeting before the first day of school.

In a nutshell

Trustees unanimously approved this year’s student code of conduct, which includes expanded disciplinary procedures and a districtwide ban on personal devices during the school day.

The changes come after an education-focused 89th Texas Legislature passed House Bill 6 and House Bill 1481, which altered state requirements for discipline and personal device policies, respectively.

The board also unanimously approved several revisions to district policies with one motion, which can be found in the full agenda.

Also of note

In a separate vote, the board approved a revision to the Parent Rights and Responsibilities policy, also known as the district’s pronoun policy.

According to the education code, district employees may not use pronouns that differ from a student’s biological sex without permission from a parent. Additionally, district instructional materials and sponsored events may not “adopt, support or promote gender identity or fluidity.”

The board did not specify during discussion what the revision included, but trustee Julie Hinaman said the changes are driven by new legislation passed in the 89th legislative session. Hinaman voted against the revision, with all other trustees voting in favor.

“Unfortunately, the changes required by state legislation do not honor all parents’ rights, but only some parents’ rights,” Hinaman said before the vote. “These changes are also inconsistent with ensuring safe and supportive learning environments for all students.”

In case you missed it

The district named Meredith Akers as the new director of CFISD virtual pathways, a new program that’s expected to launch in time for the 2026-27 academic year. The program will allow students in need of more flexibility to complete instruction virtually. Akers serves as principal at Rennell Elementary School.

The board recognized two other new principals during the Aug. 11 meeting:

• Carrie Austin was named principal of Emmett Elementary School.
• Natasha Jernagin was named principal of Hancock Elementary School.

Before you go

Public comment will be held ahead of all agenda items going forward based on new state law, meaning participants can no longer register to speak under a specific item.

The next board work session is scheduled for Sept. 4 at 6 p.m. in the Mark Henry Administration Building, located at 11440 Matzke Road.