In a continued effort to prioritize staff well-being, the United Independent School District (UISD) Board of Trustees has approved the extension of employee wellness days for the 2025–26 academic year. The decision, made during a special board meeting on June 25, 2025, ensures that all UISD employees will continue to receive two wellness days annually to address personal, health, or well-being needs.
Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that many employees have utilized the wellness days to manage personal and health-related matters. He clarified that any unused wellness days from the 2024–25 school year must be used by the end of 2026, with specific deadlines: teachers by May 30 and administrators by June 30.
However, the current policy requiring employees to notify their supervisors in advance when taking a wellness day has sparked debate among board members. Trustee Dianelle Martinez expressed concerns about this requirement, highlighting that mental health issues such as anxiety or depression often arise unexpectedly. She advocated for more empathetic language in the policy, suggesting that the current notification requirement may not accommodate the unpredictable nature of mental health needs.
Superintendent Cruz responded by explaining that wellness days are considered discretionary leave and typically require supervisor approval, especially around holidays and assessment periods. He acknowledged the need for clearer language in the policy to better address mental health considerations.
Trustee Ramiro Veliz Jr. supported the idea of reducing restrictions on the use of wellness days, emphasizing that the original intent was to provide employees with flexibility to address their well-being without unnecessary barriers. Board President Javier Montemayor agreed that the policy should be revisited and potentially revised in future meetings.
Associate Superintendent Rebecca Coss-Morales noted that the notification requirement is part of a regulation rather than a formal policy, making it more amenable to revisions. The board approved a motion directing staff to review and present updated language for the wellness day regulation at a later meeting.
This initiative aligns with UISD’s broader commitment to supporting employee wellness. The district’s Employee Wellness Program offers various resources, including activities, tools, and support systems, to encourage proactive health management among staff. Additionally, UISD has partnered with local organizations to provide mental health resources, such as the PILLAR Mental Wellness Program, which offers confidential counseling sessions to full-time employees.
By extending wellness days and considering policy revisions, UISD demonstrates a proactive approach to employee well-being, recognizing the importance of mental health support in the educational environment. The district’s ongoing efforts aim to foster a supportive culture that prioritizes the health and wellness of its staff.
