Multiple parents and community advocates used the open‑forum portion of the Socorro ISD board meeting on April 16 to ask for clearer communication and transition plans after the district signaled a restructuring or consolidation of special education programs.

Alfredo Aguero, a community organizer and founder of a parent support group, referenced several pending state bills and asked to be included in planning for alternative education and special-education transitions. He read bill numbers and sections that address discipline and parental rights and asked the district to hold workshops so parents know how discipline and re‑entry to regular education will be managed.

A parent who identified herself as Kimberly Diego said many families learned of program changes informally—“at birthday parties and hallways, backroom conversations”—and described the lack of formal notice as “deplorable” and “unconscionable.” Diego said consolidation could force students to move to different campuses in their final elementary year and urged the district to provide individualized ARD (Admission, Review, and Dismissal) transition plans so students’ services are not disrupted.

District response: Interim Superintendent Mr. Vasquez acknowledged ongoing transitions and told the speakers, “We’ll take care of that,” committing to ensure transition plans are communicated. The board’s administrative staff said they are meeting with community groups and that administrators will look into additional outreach and presentations for parents.

Why it matters: parents described an at‑risk population (students with disabilities, including students with ARFID and students on the autism spectrum) who rely on early-intervention services and continuity of programming. Speakers warned that losing PPCD (preschool program for children with disabilities) seats or reducing collaborative supports could push families to seek services in neighboring districts.

Ending: Board members and staff acknowledged the concerns and said they would follow up. No formal board action was taken during the meeting; speakers asked to be included in further planning conversations.