On what should have been a day filled with joy and relief—his last day of elementary school—11-year-old Liam’s parents say they were blindsided by a decision that could put their son’s life at risk.
Liam, who lives with a tracheostomy and requires medical support throughout the day, has attended school with the help of a dedicated nurse.
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However, on the final day of the school year, Cy-Fair ISD informed his family that Liam no longer qualifies for nursing care when he enters middle school this fall.
His mother says the district’s special education coordinator told them Liam was now considered “independent and responsible” enough to manage his own care. This care includes carrying emergency medical equipment like a suction machine, trach supplies, and an Ambu bag, in addition to his school materials.
“I feel so heartbroken and defeated,” she wrote in a public post shared widely across social media. “How is this safe? He can’t even speak to call for help.”
The family says they’ve been here before. Years ago, a similar situation forced Liam out of the classroom and into homebound instruction during first and second grade. Now, as he prepares to start middle school, they fear history is repeating itself.
“He was so excited to join the band,” she said, “to finally feel like a normal kid. And now we’re being forced to consider pulling him out of school again—not because he can’t learn, but because the district refuses to keep him safe.”
Liam’s parents are appealing the district’s decision. They’ve asked his medical team to submit formal letters outlining the risks and are exploring legal options. The appeal hearing is scheduled in two weeks.
Until then, they’re asking for community support and prayers.
“We are begging Cy-Fair ISD to listen. This is not a privilege we’re asking for—it’s a necessity. It’s the difference between a child feeling safe enough to learn and a child being left in danger.”
KPRC 2 has reached out to Cy-Fair ISD for comment and will update this article with their response.
