Houston Teacher Faces Termination for Allegedly Locking Special Needs Students in Cabinet

Houston Elementary Teacher Faces Termination After Allegedly Locking Special Needs Students in Cabinet A disturbing incident at Moreno Elementary School in Houston, Texas has led to an investigation and the recommendation for termination of a special education teacher. The incident, which allegedly occurred on May 22, 2025, involved the teacher locking several special needs students inside a cabinet. Parents were notified via a voicemail from Principal Ruben Pineda, who stated that the teacher had been temporarily reassigned pending an internal investigation into a "personal matter." One mother, whose autistic daughter was allegedly among those locked in the cabinet, expressed her outrage. "I was honestly shocked...and I was very angry," she stated, adding that she is considering pressing charges against the teacher. She also voiced concerns about the lack of detail provided about the incident. The Houston Independent School District (HISD) released a statement confirming the investigation and the teacher's recommendation for termination. The statement noted that the teacher was immediately put on leave upon the district becoming aware of the incident. The district's thorough review by administrators resulted in the recommendation for termination. The incident highlights concerns about the safety and well-being of special needs students and the need for thorough investigations into such allegations. The mother's pursuit of legal action underscores the gravity of the situation and the desire for accountability.