Whitehouse ISD Faces 4th Federal Lawsuit Over Alleged Mistreatment of Special Needs Student

WHITEHOUSE, Texas (TXAN 24)  — Yet another lawsuit has been filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas that alleges significant mistreatment of a special needs student by Whitehouse Independent School District (WISD), sparking concerns within the community about the district’s handling of special education students and accountability for their well-being.

This complaint, filed by James and Leslie Fontenot on behalf of their son, W.F., details allegations of abuse, neglect, and violations of federal laws designed to protect students with disabilities. W.F., a 12-year-old diagnosed with autism and ADHD, was enrolled at Whitehouse ISD’s junior high school between August 2016 and November 2024. According to the lawsuit, the school district failed to provide an adequate Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and allegedly subjected W.F. to harmful restraint techniques over 30 times in a span of six weeks.

Community Impact

The allegations have sent shockwaves through the Whitehouse community, with parents expressing concerns about the district’s ability to provide a safe environment for all students. Public statements during school board meetings earlier this year hinted at broader issues within WISD’s special education system. Parents of other students reportedly raised complaints about similar incidents, suggesting a possible pattern of negligence.

“This is not just about one child. It’s about ensuring every student is treated with dignity and respect,” said a local advocate for disability rights.

Special Education Concerns

The lawsuit paints a disturbing picture of the treatment W.F. endured in the special education program. Alleged incidents include improper physical restraints, denial of bathroom and water access, and exclusion from social and educational activities. One incident reportedly involved an unapproved restraint method that left W.F. with bruises on his shoulders, back, neck, and face. The family claims these injuries were documented by medical professionals, who subsequently filed reports with Child Protective Services.

The district allegedly denied repeated requests from the Fontenots for additional classroom support, including an individual aide, which they argue was necessary for their son’s safety and education.

“This wasn’t an isolated incident,” the lawsuit claims. “This was a systemic failure by Whitehouse ISD to protect one of its most vulnerable students.”

Legal Accountability

The Fontenots’ lawsuit accuses Whitehouse ISD of violating the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). They allege that the district knowingly failed to comply with federal mandates, leading to a hostile and harmful environment for W.F.

Additionally, the family claims the district obstructed accountability by refusing to provide access to video footage of the alleged incidents. The suit seeks over $25 million in damages and demands systemic changes within Whitehouse ISD to prevent future occurrences.

In response to the lawsuit, Whitehouse ISD officials have declined to comment, citing ongoing litigation.

A Call for Change

These series of cases have brought state wide attention to the challenges faced by special needs students in public schools, particularly in East Texas. Advocates for disability rights are urging the district to address these allegations transparently and prioritize reforms to ensure all students receive a safe and equitable education.

As the case moves forward, the East Texas community will be closely watching to see whether accountability and justice will be served—not just for W.F., but for all students entrusted to the district’s care.