Leadership Turmoil in Houston ISD’s Special Education Department

The Houston Independent School District (HISD) is confronting another significant leadership upheaval with the recent resignation of its Chief of Special Education. This departure adds to a series of executive-level changes that have unsettled the district’s administrative stability, particularly within departments critical to supporting students with disabilities. The exit comes at a time when HISD is striving to enhance its special education services, raising concerns about the continuity and effectiveness of these programs.

Community members and education advocates are increasingly worried about how this leadership gap might affect the district’s ability to deliver consistent, high-quality support to students requiring specialized assistance. Moving forward, HISD must focus on:

• Maintaining uninterrupted services for students with special needs despite leadership transitions.
• Improving recruitment and retention of skilled administrators to ensure long-term stability.
• Fostering open communication among district officials, educators, and families to build trust and transparency.

Consequences of the Special Education Leadership…