Rockwall ISD board approves MOU with county juvenile board to provide education for expelled students

The Rockwall ISD Board of Trustees voted to approve a memorandum of understanding with the Rockwall County juvenile board to provide educational services for students expelled from public schools, administration told trustees.

At the meeting administration said state law under Texas Education Code Chapter 37 authorizes the juvenile board to enter into an MOU with participating districts, with final approval by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. Administration recommended approval to ensure legal compliance and to outline administrative, operational and educational responsibilities between the juvenile board and the district. A representative noted Bobby Bodecker, the county director of juvenile services, was present for questions.

"This agreement outlines the administrative, operational, and educational responsibilities of the juvenile board and the district to ensure legal compliance and provide support for impacted students in Rockwall County," the presenter said. Trustee Amy Hilton moved to approve the MOU as presented; the motion was seconded and the board approved the item.

The action was described by administration as required for counties with a population exceeding the threshold in Chapter 37. Administration offered to answer questions about implementation; no substantive questions were raised during the floor discussion.