Morath Approves UIL Rule Changes

Education Commissioner Mike Morath has approved the UIL rules adopted on Oct. 27, 2025, UIL Communications Manager Julia Zachary confirmed to TexEdNews this morning (Jan. 21, 2026).

The rules (article) approved by the commissioner include a much-talked-about ban on foreign exchange students participating in varsity athletics starting in SY 2026-27 — and a requirement that cheerleaders undergo physicals in the same manner and frequency as athletes and marching band members.

State law requires the education commissioner to approve prospective UIL rules as the final step before they can take effect.