Quick Answer: In Cypress-Fairbanks ISD (CFISD), special education is managed by the Department of Special Education under the leadership of Assistant Superintendent Dr. Kayne Smith. The district strictly mandates compliance with Board Policy EHBA(LEGAL), requiring Full Individual Evaluations (FIE) to be completed within 45 school days of receiving written parental consent.

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Special Education Authority Guide

Essential guidance for families navigating the 13,624+ student special education program within the largest suburban district in Texas.

13,624 Students Receiving Services
11.5% Special Education Enrollment

CFISD Special Education Leadership

Assistant Superintendent: Dr. Kayne Smith

Physical Address:
Instructional Support Center (ISC) West
10300 Jones Rd
Houston, TX 77065

Department Phone: 281-897-6400

Official Policy: Board Policy EHBA(LEGAL)

Grievance Portal: Board Policy FNG(LOCAL)

Navigating the CFISD Special Education Model

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD utilizes a centralized administration model at the Instructional Support Center (ISC) West to oversee services for its 11.5% special education population. Under Board Policy EHBA(LEGAL), the district must identify, locate, and evaluate all children with suspected disabilities within its boundaries. Families at campuses like Cy-Ridge High or Bridgeland High should submit written requests for evaluation directly to the campus principal to initiate the legal timeline under the district’s "Child Find" obligations.

CFISD provides a specialized continuum of care including LIFE Skills (Learning in Functional Environments) and adaptive behavior settings for students with significant cognitive or behavioral needs. These programs are designed to meet Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards with appropriate modifications outlined in the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Under Board Policy FNG(LOCAL), CFISD parents have a specific legal pathway to resolve disputes. If a disagreement occurs during an Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee meeting, families are encouraged to first engage the Campus Special Education Coordinator or Case Manager before filing a formal grievance with Dr. Kayne Smith’s office. Transition services for older students, including vocational training and community-based instruction, are coordinated through the central special education office to ensure post-secondary success.

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