Yahoo News

Five weeks into HISD's special education overhaul, district leaders and some parents say the reforms have helped students. Others remain unconvinced. The district's new Special Education Success Program, which sent thousands of students to new campuses this year, has drawn both state scrutiny and a federal investigation for potentially discriminating against students with disabilities. The new program led to a chaotic first week for some families after state officials ordered the district to meet with families before sending students to new campuses. Despite the controversy, HISD said the program has accomplished its intended goal: placing students in smaller classrooms with similar-aged peers. The number of students with disabilities in classrooms with more than two grade levels has reduced drastically, and almost every classroom is meeting the district's capacity goal, former Deputy Superintendent Kristen Hole said at a Sept. 10 board meeting. 

Other families say the new program is still adding stress to their daily routines. Parent Naxhiely Ramon had to sign her son up for transportation services this year after he was assigned to a campus further from home. More than a month in, she said the service is inconsistent, and her son's lack of routine or relationships at the new school have led to some behavioral issues she believes could have been avoided