Quick Answer: In Northside ISD, special education is led by Executive Director Dr. Diana Ely at the Northside Learning Center. The district operates a decentralized "Cluster System" under Board Policy EHBA(LEGAL), mandating that all evaluation requests be initiated through the Campus Special Education Coordinator at your child's specific school.

Northside ISD Special Education Resources & Support

Serving 16,074 students with specialized instruction in San Antonio's largest school district.

16,074 Students Receiving Services
15.9% Special Education Enrollment

Northside ISD Special Education Leadership

Executive Director:
Dr. Diana Ely
Northside Learning Center

Main Office Phone:
(210) 397-8742

Local Authority Guide: The NISD "Cluster" Model

Northside ISD is the fourth largest district in Texas. Due to this scale, the district manages special education through a Cluster System, but the Campus Special Education Coordinator at individual schools like Clark High School or Brennan High School holds primary authority for IEP implementation.

Under Board Policy EHBA(LEGAL), the district must identify and evaluate students with suspected disabilities. While many districts utilize Response to Intervention (RTI), NISD policy clarifies that parents have the right to request a Full and Individual Initial Evaluation (FIIE) at any time without waiting for RTI completion. These evaluations are typically processed through the Northside Learning Center located on Evers Road.

Specialized Placements & Centers

If a student's needs cannot be met on a comprehensive campus, NISD utilizes specialized separate campuses:

  • Holmgreen Center: Provides intensive behavioral and emotional support for students who require a highly structured therapeutic environment.
  • Reddix Center: Focuses on secondary transition and vocational skills for students with significant cognitive disabilities.
  • Applied Learning Environment (ALE): A campus-based program focused on moderate to severe cognitive disabilities.

Parents seeking community support should contact the Northside Family Engagement Center at 5900 Evers Rd, which offers "Northside Threads" and localized parent training.

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