The United Independent School District celebrated the opening of two new sensory rooms at United High School — the first of their kind at a UISD high school. District leaders, staff, students, and community sponsors gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tour, highlighting the district's continued commitment to inclusion and support for students with special needs.

The new sensory rooms — one large space and a smaller one adjoining a classroom — are designed to provide calm, safe, and inclusive environments for students. They feature therapeutic lighting, textured walls, and specialized equipment that support a wide range of sensory and emotional needs. The rooms will be used for one-on-one sessions, group therapy, and speech, physical, and occupational support.

UISD Executive Director of Special Education Laura De Los Santos described the rooms as “a symbol of our commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for every child.” She added, “These spaces are gifts for our special education students — a calm and safe place where they can find comfort, focus, and a way to manage their sensory needs.”

UISD Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz commended the teamwork behind the project. “We all came together with one vision, to ensure we meet the needs of every single student in our district, particularly our special needs students,” he said. “These are students who deserve inclusivity and a learning space where they can manage daily stresses while continuing to grow academically.”

UISD Board Member Michelle Molina, whose vision helped launch the sensory room initiative, shared heartfelt remarks about the impact of these new spaces. “Not only are Longhorns going to enjoy this space today, but our future Longhorns as well,” said Molina. “Generations to come will benefit from these rooms. They provide inclusion and a safe place for redirecting social and emotional needs beyond the classroom. The benefits our students will gain are beyond words — we see it in their behavior, smiles and gestures. From the bottom of my heart, I thank every single person who contributed to this amazing project.”

United High School Principal Jessica Salazar expressed gratitude and pride in hosting the district’s first high school sensory rooms. “Our kids will have that safe space they need, and we are truly grateful,” said Salazar. “We can’t wait for them to enjoy these rooms and have that special place designed just for them.”

The project was made possible through the generous support of community members and local sponsors, including Joe Barron, founder of Casa Kariño and organizer of the Rockin’ the Spectrum Music Festival, which raised more than $18,000 for UISD’s Special Education Department. “This was really a community effort,” said Barron. “Everybody we called was always a yes. Everyone jumped on board because they know how important this is — the kids need it.”

Rodrick and Becky Lopez, who sponsored the beautiful murals that bring color and creativity to the rooms, also shared in the excitement. “Becky and I are so happy to be here to celebrate,” said Lopez. “I’m excited to see all the moving parts that came together to make this happen.”

“This room is a symbol of what we can achieve when we come together for our students,” said De Los Santos.

As the ribbon was cut and students stepped into the new sensory rooms for the first time, their smiles and laughter filled the space — a perfect reflection of the heart and unity behind this project.