State takeovers of 'failing' schools are increasing, but with little evidence they help students miamiherald.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from miamiherald.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
The state-appointed leaders of Houston’s public school system say they can’t comply with a new law requiring police officers at every campus, and they’re seeking exemptions for that and other state laws. During the Thursday board meeting, they also geared up for expected school closures in the coming years by approving a policy that allows staffers from those schools to be terminated.
At the event attendees expressed concern regarding special education, dual-language programs and recently implemented reforms at the district’s New Education System schools.
Houston residents and stakeholders can meet the nine-member board of managers and provide feedback on its goals for the 2023-24 school year at 10 in-person events and one virtual session.
Takeovers have had limited success in improving student performance. Opponents say their real purpose is to undermine the power of Black and Hispanic communities.
Mike Miles, appointed by the Texas Education Agency in June, wants the agency to grant a waiver allowing the district to hire uncertified teachers. The Houston ISD board of managers, also appointed by the agency, will consider that request as well as a push to give Miles expanded power Thursday night.