TEA Threatens State Takeovers for Supporting Student Protests
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has issued a stark warning to school districts regarding state interventions related to student protests. This action follows directives from Governor Greg Abbott, who has urged Education Commissioner Mike Morath to investigate incidents of student walkouts over recent controversies involving federal immigration actions.
TEA Addresses Political Activism in Schools
On a recent Tuesday, the TEA released guidance stressing that any school involvement in “inappropriate political activism” could lead to severe consequences. The agency’s warning specifies actions against students, educators, and school districts that take part in protests.
- Students participating in protests may be marked absent.
- Districts could face a loss in state funding.
- Educators might undergo investigations and face disciplinary actions.
- School boards could be replaced with appointed boards.
The guidelines come in light of high-profile protests conducted by students in districts like Austin Independent School District (AISD), where students participated in nationwide walkouts on January 30.
Consequences for Non-Compliance
According to the TEA, the agency’s primary goal is to ensure student safety and consistent classroom attendance. Their press release emphasized that educational institutions must fulfill their obligation to provide safe learning environments.
Education Commissioner Morath holds the power to launch investigations into any school district suspected of facilitating protests. Findings from these inquiries could result in adjustments to accreditation statuses or the direct appointment of monitors to oversee school operations.
District Responses to Protests
In recent protests, many districts, including AISD, claimed they did not endorse the student walkouts. Superintendent Matias Segura stated that, while they could not prevent students from leaving, staff remained present to ensure safety during the events.
Concerns escalated on a Monday when demonstrations occurred in Hays Consolidated Independent School District (CISD), resulting in police arrests. Reports indicated two students were apprehended for allegedly possessing alcohol and resisting arrest. The district, however, denied any intent to facilitate the protests.
Legal and Administrative Actions
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has also become involved, demanding documentation from AISD regarding student participation policies during the protests. Following a viral incident where a teacher was seen with protest signs, Hays CISD placed the staff member on administrative leave, reinforcing their stance against political activities within the school environment.
“The school district belongs to everyone, and we do not engage in political activity using taxpayer resources,” stated Hays CISD Superintendent Eric Wright.
Governor’s Stance on Protests
Governor Abbott has been vocal on the issue, suggesting measures to withdraw state funding from schools that fail to uphold their responsibilities. He asserted that any chaos resulting from school-endorsed demonstrations would not be tolerated.
As tensions rise over student participation in protests, the TEA’s positioning highlights the delicate balance between student rights and institutional accountability within Texas education systems.
