Spring Branch ISD settles suit over death of special education student

May 30, 2026 - 20:11

The Spring Branch Independent School District has settled a lawsuit filed last year in connection with the 2023 death of a Stratford High School student who was enrolled in special education programs. The terms of the settlement were not immediately disclosed, but both parties confirmed the agreement in court filings late last week.

The lawsuit, brought by the student's family, alleged that district staff failed to provide adequate supervision and appropriate medical care for the teenager, who had a known history of seizures and other health complications. According to court documents, the student died on campus after staff members did not follow the emergency action plan outlined in the student's individualized education program, or IEP.

Attorneys for the family argued that the district's negligence directly led to the preventable death. The student's parents said they had repeatedly raised concerns about the lack of trained personnel and the failure to implement safety protocols. The district initially denied liability, stating that staff acted within their training and that the student's medical condition was unpredictable.

In a brief statement, Spring Branch ISD expressed condolences to the family and said the settlement allows both sides to move forward without further litigation. The district also noted that it has since reviewed and updated its emergency response procedures for students with special needs. No criminal charges were filed in the case.