Information for Parents Regarding Video Surveillance
in Special Education Classrooms
As part of our ongoing commitment to the safety and well-being of students receiving special education services, we want to inform you about the placement and operation of video surveillance specifically in self-contained special education classrooms and other special education settings, in accordance with Texas Education Code 29.022.
Purpose of Video Surveillance
· Video cameras with audio capabilities are installed only in special education classrooms where a majority of students receive special education and related services for at least 50% of the instructional day.
· Recordings are considered confidential and are not public records. Recordings are retained if an alleged incident is being investigated until resolution.
Parent Rights
· Parents of students involved in an alleged incident captured on camera may request access to video footage that directly involves their child. If multiple students are present, the district will redact unrelated individuals.
· Parents will receive written notice before cameras are activated in any classroom or setting attended by their child.
· Parents may request continued video surveillance for the following school year by submitting a new request prior to the start of that year, consistent with TEC §29.022.
End-of-Year Procedures
· Since the school year is ending, Taft ISD is required to notify parents of special education students in these classrooms that the video monitoring of these classrooms will not continue during the summer.
· In addition, eligible individuals can make the written request to reactivate the cameras for the next school year (parent, principal/assistant principal or a campus staff member assigned to work with these students) before the new school year begins.
We encourage you to contact your campus principal or the Special Education Director with any questions or to obtain additional information about video surveillance in your child’s classroom. Request Forms for Video Surveillance Continuation for Next School Year can be obtained from your campus principal or the Special Education Director.