Texas AG Investigates Three School Districts Over ICE Protests
The Texas Attorney General, Ken Paxton, has initiated investigations into three school districts in response to student protests regarding immigration enforcement. The targeted districts include North East Independent School District in San Antonio, Dallas Independent School District, and Manor Independent School District. This announcement was made on Monday, following a similar inquiry into the Austin Independent School District.
Background of the Investigations
These investigations are focused on accusations that school officials did not adequately ensure student safety or minimize disruptions during protests organized against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Governor Greg Abbott has warned that school districts that support such demonstrations could face significant consequences, including loss of funding.
Key Statements from Officials
Paxton expressed his determination to prevent Texas schools from acting as platforms for what he calls the “radical Left’s open borders agenda.” He emphasized that legal actions will be taken against any public school officials who facilitate student participation in protests against law enforcement.
Nature of the Protests
The student protests were part of a national movement that arose after several incidents involving federal immigration officers. These demonstrations occurred in multiple Texas cities, including Austin, San Antonio, and Waco, with participants demanding an end to ICE activities.
Consequences for School Districts
- Possible loss of funding for non-compliance
- Students may face arrest if they violate laws during protests
- Potential state intervention if districts are found to have facilitated walkouts
Records Requested by the Attorney General
As part of the ongoing investigation, AG Paxton is requesting various records from the involved school districts, including:
- Student leave policies
- Protocols for excused absences
- Security measures implemented during protests
- Internal communications related to demonstrations
- Allocation of public funds for associated activities
Significance of the School Districts Involved
Dallas Independent School District is the second-largest in Texas, closely following Houston Independent School District. North East ISD ranks as the second-largest district in the San Antonio area, just behind Northside ISD. The size and influence of these districts highlight the broader implications of the ongoing investigations.
This scrutiny of Texas school districts underscores the tension between educational institutions and state authorities over issues of immigration and students’ rights to protest. The outcome of these investigations may set important precedents for how schools navigate activism among their student bodies.
