Through schools for students with profound special needs, Head Start early childhood education, school-based therapy services and afterschool programs, HCDE supports all area school districts in meeting the needs of uniquely challenged learners while saving them millions of dollars each year through shared services. The Department is an innovative leader of literacy and workforce development programming for adult learners across the county. HCDE also provides various other educational support services including professional development for educators, school safety programs, educator certification, records management, and a national purchasing cooperative.

HCDE impacted more than 101,000 students in 2023-2024. Using fees for service, grants, and the purchasing cooperative, HCDE turns one dollar of property taxes into more than five dollars of services.

HCDE is separate and distinct from other agencies of Harris County. The Department’s primary service area covers 1,788 square miles but also provides support to school districts, education service centers and other governmental agencies across Texas and the nation.