Texas Governor Says Students Can't Freely Protest During School Hours

Constitutional law expert says Abbott's stance aligns with Supreme Court rulings on student free speech rights.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Texas Governor Greg Abbott has emphasized that students cannot simply walk out of school to attend protests without facing consequences, such as unexcused absences. The governor and the Texas Education Agency say teachers who encourage walkouts could face even harsher punishments, including potential loss of their teaching license. Constitutional law expert Josh Blackman weighed in, stating that while students have some free speech rights at school, they cannot cause a disruption, and teachers are not allowed to encourage students to leave school during the day.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing debate around the limits of student free speech rights, particularly when it comes to protests and walkouts during school hours. The governor's stance aligns with Supreme Court rulings, but could still face legal challenges in the future.

The details

Governor Greg Abbott emphasized that students cannot simply walk out of school to attend protests without facing consequences, such as unexcused absences. The Texas Education Agency also stated that teachers who encourage walkouts could face harsh punishments, including potential loss of their teaching license. Constitutional law expert Josh Blackman explained that while students have some free speech rights at school, they cannot cause a disruption, and teachers are not allowed to encourage students to leave school during the day.

  • On February 6, 2026, Governor Greg Abbott made these statements regarding student protests during school hours.

The players

Greg Abbott

The current Governor of Texas who has taken a stance against student walkouts during school hours.

Josh Blackman

A constitutional law professor at South Texas College of Law who provided expert analysis on the legal aspects of the governor's position.

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What they’re saying

“The Supreme Court has been very clear about free speech of students, and that free speech of students does not include leaving the school.”

— Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas (click2houston.com)

“Students have some free speech rights at school but they can't cause a disruption. I think the entire point of a walkout is to cause a disruption.”

— Josh Blackman, Constitutional Law Professor (click2houston.com)

What’s next

It is conceivable that these rules and repercussions could be tested in court in the future, as outcomes could depend on how key terms, such as 'facilitating a walkout,' are interpreted.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing debate around the limits of student free speech rights, particularly when it comes to protests and walkouts during school hours. While the governor's stance aligns with Supreme Court rulings, it could still face legal challenges in the future.