What this is
Learn how to attend HISD Board meetings and speak up for your child's education - every second Thursday at 5:00 PM.
The basics
When: Second Thursday of each month at 5:00 PM (except July).
Where: Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center, Board Auditorium, 4400 West 18th Street.
How long: Usually 2-4 hours.
Cost: Free. Open to the public.
Broadcast: Livestreamed on the HISD website and archived.
Current status
As of 2026, HISD is under Texas Education Agency (TEA) appointed management. The Board of Managers functions similarly to an elected board in terms of public meetings. Check houstonisd.org for current governance status.
What happens at the meeting
The board sets policy for the largest school district in Texas. Typical agenda items:
Superintendent report — updates on district operations and student outcomes
Academic programs — curriculum, school performance, special education
Budget and finance — district spending, staffing levels, bond projects
Facilities — school construction, closures, boundary changes
Personnel — hiring, contracts, policy changes
Public comment — community input on any topic
How to give public comment
Find the agenda: Posted at houstonisd.legistar.com before the meeting.
Register online: Use the eComment system on Legistar. Registration typically opens several days before the meeting.
Read full text
At the meeting: Check in with staff at the auditorium entrance.
Speak: You will have 2-3 minutes. State your name, your connection to HISD (parent, student, teacher, taxpayer), and your topic.
Tips for first-timers
If your child attends an HISD school, mention the school by name. It helps the board understand the local impact.
Be specific. "My child at Bellaire High needs..." is stronger than general comments.
Bring other parents. Numbers matter in public comment.
The board may not respond during the meeting, but your comments are part of the public record.
Board agenda packets contain detailed backup documents. Reading them in advance helps you ask better questions.
Getting there
Parking: Free parking on-site at the Hattie Mae White center.
Transit: METRO bus routes serve the area. Check ridemetro.org for trip planning.
Accessibility: The auditorium is ADA accessible. For accommodations, contact the Board Office in advance.
After the meeting
Meeting videos and minutes at houstonisd.legistar.com
Contact information for board members at houstonisd.org/board-governance
Track specific agenda items through the Legistar portal
About Houston Independent School District
Houston Independent School District is the largest public school system in Texas, serving more than 187,000 students across 274 schools. HISD is governed by a nine-member Board of Education that meets monthly in public s…
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