Overview
- TEA Deputy Commissioner of Governance Steve Lecholop removed the district’s conservator this week, returning authority to Harlandale’s elected board.
- State oversight began in February 2020 following findings involving governance lapses, contract procurement issues and Open Meetings Act violations, with nepotism allegations not substantiated in a 2018 report.
- The removal follows TEA’s September shift from direct oversight to observation, a step that signaled progress without granting the conservator decision-making power.
- District leaders cite multi-year reforms including stronger financial controls, enhanced board training and transparency, and a 2023 decision to close four elementary schools to help offset a $12 million deficit.
- Harlandale serves about 11,500 students across 19 campuses and recently received a D in the 2025 A–F accountability ratings, underscoring ongoing academic challenges despite governance gains.