Standing Up and Speaking Out: When Edgewood Parents Demand Accountability
Date: August 2025
Author: Maribel Gardea, Co-founder & Executive Director, MindShiftED Parent Institute
When a School Board Meeting Turns Into a Parent’s Worst Nightmare
This week in San Antonio, Texas, we saw something that every parent of a special needs child fears: stepping into a school board meeting and ending the night under arrest. On August 19, the Edgewood ISD board meeting spiraled out of control, and I—along with other parents—found myself handcuffed and taken away from my family for hours. It was a night none of us will forget—and a stark reminder of why we fight for change.
Why This Matters More Than Ever
For months, Edgewood ISD parents have been raising concerns about unsafe conditions, bullying by staff, and a complete lack of transparency. We offered listening circles and proposed community resolutions. We asked for trauma-informed training and family-centered communication. Instead, we were met with silence, and then with force.
This isn’t just about one meeting gone wrong. It’s about a school district that refuses to listen to the very families it serves. It’s about accountability that’s been denied and leadership that’s failed. And it’s about the fundamental right of parents to advocate for their children without fear of retaliation.
Moving Forward With Strength and Solidarity
We will continue to share our story, not just for ourselves but for every family that has felt unheard. We’ll include images from that night—yes, even the uncomfortable ones—because the truth needs to be seen. And we invite everyone reading this to stand with us. Edgewood parents are not backing down. We are asking for a district that truly honors its commitment to all children and all families.
💥 Join the Movement – Your Story Matters. Your Support Powers Change.
Edgewood families are rising up—but we can’t do it alone.
🗣️ Share Your Story:
Have you or your child experienced something similar in Edgewood ISD? Were you ignored, silenced, or dismissed? Your voice could be the one that helps drive real change.
👉 Submit your story or video testimony here: info@mindshifted.org or text it to 210-760-8191
💸 Donate to Support the Movement:
Every dollar helps us print materials, organize families, attend meetings, and build lasting power.
👉 Donate today at: Givebutter or on our Website
This is more than a moment—it’s a movement. Let’s make sure every family is heard and every child is protected. Together, we are unstoppable.
#EdgewoodVoices #ParentPower #WeWontBeSilenced
