TYLER, Texas (TXAN 24) – Whitehouse Independent School District (WISD) is now facing over $30 million in lawsuits after a third recent case has been filed, accusing the district of neglect, physical abuse, and violations of federal law regarding the treatment of special needs students. Joshua Claxton, a Tyler resident, has brought forward the latest lawsuit, which seeks $25 million in damages for the harm inflicted on his child, A.C., in the district’s Special Education classroom at Brown Elementary School.
The complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, describes the use of an unauthorized restraint technique, referred to as the “lion chair method,” which allegedly left A.C. with bruises and emotional trauma. This method, which involved pinning children with metal chair legs, is not approved by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and is at the center of the lawsuit.
Allegations of Abuse and Systemic Neglect
Claxton’s case follows two other recent lawsuits against Whitehouse ISD that similarly accuse the district of failing to provide adequate support for special needs students. In Claxton’s suit, it is alleged that despite multiple complaints to the district, including to WISD attorney Jennifer Carroll, the school failed to address the ongoing abuse. When Claxton was eventually allowed to view video footage of the incidents, some parts of the footage were intentionally obscured.
The lawsuit also claims that Whitehouse ISD failed to adhere to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which mandates the development and enforcement of an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) for children with disabilities.
Growing Legal Battle and $30 Million in Total Claims
With Claxton’s lawsuit seeking $25 million, the total damages sought in the three lawsuits against Whitehouse ISD now exceed $30 million. The legal claims involve violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 1983 of the Civil Rights Act, and other federal protections meant to safeguard children with disabilities.
The lawsuit alleges that the district exhibited deliberate indifference to the safety and well-being of its students, creating a hostile learning environment. As a direct result of the abuse, Claxton withdrew his child from Whitehouse ISD and transitioned to homeschooling.
Community Concerns and Calls for Accountability
The three lawsuits have raised widespread concern within the community about the safety measures in place for special needs students in Whitehouse ISD. Parents and community leaders are calling for increased oversight and stronger accountability for how the district manages its special education programs.
With three lawsuits now in the courts, Whitehouse ISD is under pressure to re-evaluate its practices and ensure the protection of vulnerable students. As the cases move forward, the district’s response could have far-reaching effects on its policies and approach to student safety.
Next Steps
The case, Claxton v. Whitehouse Independent School District, is moving toward a jury trial, adding to the mounting legal challenges faced by the district. As the situation develops, the public will be closely watching to see how Whitehouse ISD addresses the serious allegations brought against it.
TXAN 24 News will continue to cover updates on this case and others as more information becomes available.
Comments