In a recent government meeting, discussions highlighted the critical need for specialized training and therapeutic services in public education, emphasizing their role in ensuring safety for students, staff, and the broader community. With many districts facing challenges in addressing the needs of students with high behavioral issues, there is a growing reliance on TEA-approved day schools, which come at a significant financial burden to local budgets.

One innovative solution presented was the establishment of a Therapeutic Education Center (TEC) by Friends of ISD in collaboration with Pearland ISD and Alvin ISD. Funded by a $1.3 million autism grant from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) in 2022, the TEC provides intensive intervention for up to 12 students at a time, focusing on those with significant behavioral needs. The center operates in an old junior high building, utilizing local funds to cover startup and operational costs.

The TEC has proven to be a cost-effective alternative to traditional TEA-approved placements, saving districts between $30,000 to $70,000 per student. Students at the TEC receive specialized support from trained educators and therapists, allowing them to develop essential skills for emotional and behavioral regulation while remaining in their communities. Notably, within the first year of operation, half of the students have successfully transitioned back to their home campuses, demonstrating the program's effectiveness.

The meeting also featured testimony from Andrew Hairston of Texas Appleseed, who addressed concerns regarding the implementation of HB 3, highlighting potential harms associated with the legislation. The discussions underscored the importance of continued support and funding for collaborative services like the TEC, which could be replicated across Texas to enhance safety and educational outcomes for students with behavioral challenges.