TEA HISD Takeover: Community meetings begin Tuesday to address questions about the agency’s takeover of the largest school district in Texas

Houston, Texas (KTRK) – Parents, educators, community members, and anyone with questions about the next step after the Texas Education Agency’s takeover of Houston ISD can attend information sessions beginning Tuesday.

All meetings begin at 6:30 pm

Tuesday: Westbury High School | Lecture hall

11911 Chimney Rock, Houston 77035

Wednesday, March 22, 2023: Chavez High School | Lecture hall

8501 Howard, Houston 77017

Wednesday, March 29, 2023: Hattie Mae White | Boardroom

Educational support center

4400 West 18th Street, Houston 77092

Thursday, March 30, 2023: Kashmir High School | Lecture hall

6900 Whaleville, Houston 77028

The meetings also aim to address questions regarding the Board submission process which will temporarily replace HISD’s supervisor and trustees during this acquisition.

After the presentation, the TEA will answer questions from the attendees. If you aren’t able to come in person to a meeting, TEA says there will be a webinar later that people will be able to watch.

ABC13’s Daniela Hurtado spoke to TEA Commissioner Mike Morath last week, when the acquisition was announced, about what he’s looking for on the board, and who he wants to be in his place by June 1.

“We want to make sure that we have a very diverse decision-making body. We want people who have different life experiences. Some have an educational background, some may have skills in finance … and that they have different living experiences because just when Morath said you have kind of a diverse group From the people they get together, you can then get to the best decisions to make for the kids.”

Under Texas law, Morath’s decision is ultimately up to the board’s choice, though he told ABC13 he wouldn’t rule, they would.

Requirements to sit on the Board of Directors include being an eligible voter in Harris County, not having been convicted of a crime, passing a background check, and filling out a conflict of interest form.

ABC13 wants to help you get answers from state officials and lawmakers, too.

Eyewitness News anchor Tom Abrahams will moderate Action 13’s next town hall, “HISD Takeover: What you need to know,” this Thursday at 7 p.m.

You can submit your questions about the acquisition here to be included in this week’s conversation.