UH report shows HISD lost 13,000-plus students post-takeover
A University of Houston report finds Houston ISD lost more than 13,000 students in the two years after the 2023 state takeover, with the steepest enrollment declines in kindergarten, first grade and ninth grade. The study also reports higher teacher turnover, a sharp increase in first-year teachers and a rise in uncertified educators to nearly one in five. Researchers say the district now serves fewer students and employs a less experienced workforce, offering data that may inform other Texas districts facing potential state intervention.