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Special education director says Mesquite ISD improves to DL1; 7,551 students served
Summary
Executive director Matt Morris told trustees the special education department serves 7,551 students (Oct. 31), moved from DL2 to DL1 under TEA determinations, and reported improved RDA indicators and a $10,000 transition grant.
Matt Morris, executive director of special education, presented the department’s annual effectiveness report, highlighting measurable improvements in program performance and compliance. He told the board the department serves students from birth through age 21 and reported a headcount of 7,551 students as of Oct. 31.
"Our special education department provides services for students from birth through age 21, serving 7,551 students as of October 31," Morris said, and added the district moved from a DL2 (needs assistance) to a DL1 (meets requirements) in the Texas Education Agency results-driven accountability system. He said the change reflects gains across multiple RDA indicators and program refinements.
Morris described specific supports and investments: a $10,000 grant for transition services through Texas A&M work-based learning, procurement of Panorama and Rethink data systems, contracts with board-certified behavior analysts, and use of registered behavior technicians in classrooms. He said these steps address disproportionality and behavioral needs, noting the district had reduced a risk ratio for one subgroup from a higher value to 2.3 and was monitoring early estimates for 2026.
He also cited improved CCMR attainment for students receiving special education services (94% in 2025) and lower dropout rates, and invited questions from trustees. The board thanked the special education leadership team and welcomed the new coordinator who had just been hired.
