Controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2016
Employment, contracting, and Gülen-movement allegations
A complaint filed with the Texas Education Agency alleged employment discrimination based on national origin and gender, improper vendor selection, and misappropriation of public funds. It also raised questions about possible ties to the Gülen movement. Harmony officials denied a formal connection to that movement.
2014
Civil-rights compliance review
The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights reviewed Harmony's compliance with protections concerning race, color, national origin, disability, and access. Admissions procedures appeared nondiscriminatory, but enrollment of students with disabilities and English-language learners was lower than in nearby districts. The matter was resolved after Harmony submitted corrective proposals.
2011
H-1B visa and vendor scrutiny
Harmony faced scrutiny over its use of H-1B visas to employ Turkish-born staff and its awarding of contracts to Turkish-owned businesses. Later reporting indicated that the proportion of employees using H-1B visas had declined substantially.