The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has confirmed it's removing Houston ISD's school board and superintendent, effectively putting the state in charge of its largest school district.
TEA Commissioner Mike Morath sent a letter to the Houston Board of Trustees Wednesday morning notifying them of the agency's intent.
Morath said the board has failed to improve student outcomes while conducting "chaotic board meetings marred by infighting" and violating open meetings act and procurement laws. He accused the district of failing to provide proper special education services and of violating state and federal laws with its approach to supporting students with disabilities, as reported by the Associated Press.
As part of the takeover, according to Houston media outlets, the TEA will begin the search for a new district superintendent and open an application for a new board of managers, all of whom are expected to be appointed around June 1st.
Reports say current board members will temporarily lose authority but will be invited to serve in an advisory capacity.
The state's takeover attempt of the Houston ISD started back in 2019 after seven consecutive unacceptable ratings at one high school, and 50 others received D or F grades.
There's been a lot of debate on both sides of this issue from parents and teachers to lawmakers and state leaders.
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