In a recent Houston Independent School District (HISD) meeting, a wave of discontent from parents, teachers, and students highlighted significant concerns regarding the district's leadership and educational practices under Superintendent Mike Miles. Attendees voiced their frustrations over a perceived decline in educational quality, safety issues, and a culture of fear within schools.

Several speakers criticized the ongoing school takeover, which was initially intended to enhance educational standards but has reportedly led to a deterioration in the learning environment. One parent lamented that libraries are being replaced with detention centers, while another expressed concern over the stress placed on teachers, who fear job loss for speaking out against the administration's policies.

Students also took the floor, with a fifth grader emphasizing the dangers of prioritizing test scores over genuine learning experiences. This sentiment was echoed by multiple speakers who argued that the focus on metrics has overshadowed the need for creativity and emotional well-being in education.

Safety was a recurring theme, particularly after revelations that over 170 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in the district were non-functional. A physician and HISD parent stressed the urgent need for accountability and proper training for school personnel to ensure student safety.

Concerns about fiscal responsibility were raised, with speakers opposing plans to sell district property to fund what they termed \"wasteful spending.\" Many expressed skepticism about the motivations behind proposed bonds, fearing that financial interests might overshadow the needs of students.

The meeting concluded with a call for transparency and a reassessment of the district's priorities, as community members urged the board to listen to the voices of those directly affected by the current policies. The overarching message was clear: without trust, transparency, and a genuine commitment to student welfare, the district risks further alienating its community.