Hundreds of HS seniors scramble to graduate amid Spring ISD snafu

SPRING, TX (KTRK) -- Hundreds of students faced with the possibility of not graduating are working overtime to get credits in order after administrators for the Spring Independent School District revealed widespread problems.

District officials said "systematic scheduling and recording problems" within the district have jeopardized the ability for seniors at Westfield High School, Dekaney High School and Spring High School to graduate.

"This is an adult error," said Sheleah Reed, spokeswoman for the district. "We are doing everything we can to help these students get the necessary credits in order to graduate."

The problems were first revealed in early January by administrators who noticed discrepancies with student transcripts and other reports. With only months left before the end of the semester, students are taking accelerated online and evening courses to make up credit.

The Texas Education Agency called this a "terrible situation." Debbie Ratliffe with the state agency said it is too early to tell what the fall out with the district will be.

Here is the statement released by Spring ISD:

"As a result of a recent investigation conducted by the Spring Independent School District, serious issues and irregularities have been identified -- exposing negligent course-schedule and record-management practices that appear systemic as well as potentially endorsed or overlooked by the district for several years. These issues, which affect Spring ISD's three comprehensive high schools, require some students to change courses or use alternative scheduling to meet state graduation requirements."

Within the last week, campuses have been communicating directly with affected students and their parents to help them understand how the changes could impact their academic schedule and possible graduation date. Additionally, the district is working hard to provide options that will help students complete their coursework in a timely manner.

With the support of the Texas Education Agency, the district is continuing its investigation. At the same time, strong checks and balances are being established to ensure that the practices uncovered will never occur again.

Below is the breakdown by school:

Transcript issues or concerns were identified on approximately 80 percent of Dekaney High School senior transcripts. Approximately 30 percent of those seniors required a course change or alternative scheduling to meet graduation requirements.

Transcript issues or concerns were identified on approximately 50 percent of Spring High School senior transcripts. Approximately 35 percent of those seniors required a course change or alternative scheduling to meet graduation requirements.

Transcript issues or concerns were identified on approximately 70 percent of Westfield High School senior transcripts. Approximately 40 percent of those seniors required a course change or alternative scheduling to meet graduation requirements.