Special Investigations Division (SID)

Special Investigations at a Glance

The Special Investigations Division (SID) looks into serious or widespread violations of the Texas Education Code (TEC) by school districts and charter schools. Our work helps protect students, hold schools accountable, and maintain trust in Texas public education.

SID investigations are authorized under state law, mainly:

• TEC §§ 39.003-39.004: These laws allow the Commissioner of Education to launch investigations when issues like excessive student absences, financial mismanagement, governance problems, or civil rights concerns arise. They also outline how investigations are conducted and kept confidential.
• TEC Chapter 11: This chapter covers how school districts are governed. SID may investigate if board members or superintendents appear to be violating their legal responsibilities.

Investigation Triggers

We may investigate when we see things like:

• High rates of student absences or exemptions from state tests
• Possible civil rights violations or federal law issues
• Conflicts among board members or between trustees and administrators
• Irregularities with special education assessments or discipline
• Suspected cheating or data tampering on tests
• Misuse of school funds or incorrect financial reporting
• Overuse of graduation committees or endorsement patterns
• Failure to provide requested documentation to TEA
• Governance issues that break the law

How Our Team Works

SID is organized into three specialized teams, each focused on a key area:

• Academic Integrity & Student Welfare - Investigates testing practices, student safety, and discipline concerns.
• Fraud, Waste, and Abuse - Focuses on financial oversight and reviews school programs involving potential financial mismanagement, public corruption, or misuse of education funds.
• Compliance Review - Checks if schools are following law and policies.

Special Investigation Procedures

Visit our Special Investigation Procedures page to learn how investigations are conducted.

What Happens After an Investigation

Once an investigation is complete, the Commissioner may take steps to address the issues. These can include:

• Assigning monitors, conservators or boards of managers to help address issues
• Changing a district's accreditation status or accountability rating
• Requiring corrective actions or external audits
• Referring findings to law enforcement or other agencies

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of issues does SID investigate? 
We look into serious or ongoing problems under TEC Chapter 39, including testing irregularities, financial mismanagement, governance misconduct, and civil rights issues.

Does SID investigate educator misconduct or abuse? 
No. Those cases go to TEA's Educator Investigations Division or law enforcement. SID only steps in if there's a broader pattern of systemic issues.

What if I believe a superintendent or trustee is misusing their authority? 
If the behavior violates legal roles defined in TEC Chapter 11, SID may investigate. Complaints should include documentation and show a pattern of misconduct.

Will SID investigate discipline concerns, like in-school suspension or Disciplinary Alternative Education Program placements? 
Only if there is evidence of systemic issues that may violate state law.

Can SID investigate problems with individual graduation committees, endorsements, or Algebra II access? 
Yes, if there's a pattern that suggests manipulation of overuse in violation of the law.

Can I report grading issues or teacher complaints to SID? 
No. These should be handled locally or through TEA's General Complaints process.

Will SID investigate issues related to school culture or climate? 
Only if they involve violations of civil rights or federal requirements.

How do I know if SID is investigating my district? 
SID does not announce pending or active investigations. A formal notice is sent to the superintendent and boards of trustees once TEA determines an allegation warrants a special investigation.

Does SID contact complainants for follow-up? 
Usually not. Staff may reach out if more evidence if needed.

How long do SID investigations take? 
It depends on the scope. Investigations include getting district responses, collecting and analyzing evidence, conducting interviews, ascertaining risk factors, and preparing investigative reports.

Are SID investigations reports made public? 
Most special investigation reports are confidential under the Texas law. However, if an investigation confirms serious violations, the Commissioner may release a final report to the pubic.

Can I obtain copies of SID reports or evidence? 
Only final reports and non-confidential documents can be released. Submit a Public Information Request (PIR) to TEA's Public Information Office (fees may apply):

• Online: TEA PIR Portal
• Email: pir@tea.texas.gov
• Phone:  (512) 463-3464

Can I submit a complaint to SID? 
Yes. Start with the Parent Complaint Navigator-a short tool available to anyone- that helps you figure out the best next steps and offers helpful tips specific to your concern. If recommended, use the General Education Complaint Form to submit your concern. If it fits SID's scope, we'll take it from there.

Tips for Submitting a Complaint to SID

Before submitting, make sure your concern fits SID's scope and includes supporting evidence.