Austin ISD Sets New Protest Rules After Student Walkouts

District outlines limits on staff involvement, law enforcement's role in off-campus demonstrations

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Austin Independent School District has updated its protest protocols, setting new rules for student walkouts and staff conduct after recent demonstrations against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The changes include monitoring protests within 300 feet of campuses and handing off responsibility to law enforcement for demonstrations that move farther from school grounds. The district also released updated expectations for employees, prohibiting the use of district facilities and materials for political campaigns during school hours.

Why it matters

The new rules come amid pressure from Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton, who have targeted Austin ISD for investigation over the student-led walkouts. The district says the increase in protests, particularly those moving off campus, prompted the need for clearer protocols to ensure student and staff safety while maintaining a focus on classroom instruction.

The details

Under the updated protocols, campus administrators and Austin ISD police will monitor walkouts that remain within 300 feet of a school building, while law enforcement will assume responsibility once students move farther from campus. The district has also released revised expectations for employees, prohibiting the use of district facilities and materials for political campaigns during school hours and requiring staff to consult with district counsel if they violate the policy.

  • In the last two weeks, Austin ISD has seen an uptick in student-led protests against immigration policies and enforcement.
  • Last week, Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed the Texas Education Agency to investigate Austin ISD's role in the protests.

The players

Greg Abbott

The governor of Texas who has targeted Austin ISD for investigation over the student-led walkouts.

Ken Paxton

The Texas Attorney General who has demanded that Austin ISD turn over records related to the protests.

Matias Segura

The superintendent of Austin Independent School District.

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What they’re saying

“We have managed past walkouts by giving students space and freedom to express themselves. However, the number of protests, combined with demonstrations moving off campus, has prompted our leaders to develop more detailed protest protocols to ensure the safety of our students and staff while maintaining our focus on on-campus instruction.”

— Austin ISD (statesman.com)

“We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we navigate through these events. If you have any questions, please connect with your campus leadership.”

— Matias Segura, Superintendent (statesman.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.