Department of Education opens disability discrimination investigation into HISD, officials say

May 9, 2026 - 03:06

The U.S. Department of Education has launched a disability discrimination investigation into the Houston Independent School District, officials confirmed this week. The probe follows HISD's recent announcement of upcoming changes to its special education programs, though district leaders have not yet detailed the specific policies that triggered the federal review.

The investigation will examine whether HISD violated federal laws that protect students with disabilities, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. These laws require public school districts to provide a free and appropriate public education to all students with disabilities, and to avoid discriminatory practices in how services are delivered.

HISD has been under intense scrutiny in recent years over its handling of special education. Critics have long argued that the district fails to properly identify students who need services, delays evaluations, and does not provide adequate support once students are placed in special education programs. The new investigation adds another layer of pressure on a district already navigating state oversight and leadership changes.

A spokesperson for the district said HISD will cooperate fully with the investigation. "We are committed to ensuring every student receives the support they need to succeed," the spokesperson said. The Department of Education has not set a timeline for when the investigation will conclude.