Texas Education Agency Warns of State Takeovers for 'Encouraging' Student Protests

The state agency issued guidance to districts after Gov. Abbott directed an investigation into student walkouts against federal agent killings.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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The Texas Education Agency has warned school districts that they could face state takeovers if they help facilitate students walking out of class to attend protests. This comes after Gov. Greg Abbott directed the Education Commissioner to investigate a social media post showing Austin ISD students participating in nationwide walkouts against recent killings by federal immigration officers. The TEA said students, teachers or districts engaging in 'inappropriate political activism' could face consequences like funding cuts, educator discipline, and state oversight.

Why it matters

The state's crackdown on student protests highlights the ongoing tensions between Texas leadership and public schools over issues of free speech, civic engagement, and the role of education in shaping the next generation of citizens. This clash raises questions about the boundaries of student activism and the ability of schools to support students' right to protest.

The details

In the guidance released Tuesday, the TEA said students could be marked absent and districts could lose state funding if they participate in protests. Educators could also be investigated and disciplined, including losing their teaching licenses. Districts could face state oversight, including the replacement of elected school boards with state-appointed boards of managers.

  • On January 30, 2026, students from San Antonio's Memorial High School walked out in protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
  • On Friday and Monday, districts across Texas experienced student walkouts to protest recent killings by federal agents.

The players

Greg Abbott

The Governor of Texas who directed the Education Commissioner to investigate the student protests.

Mike Morath

The Texas Education Commissioner who was directed by Gov. Abbott to investigate the student protests.

Matias Segura

The Austin ISD Superintendent who stated that district staff could not physically prevent students from leaving campus during the protests, and that school resource officers remained with students nearby for their safety.

Ken Paxton

The Texas Attorney General who requested documents from Austin ISD on student leave policies and internal communications during the Friday protest, and accused district officials of encouraging students to participate.

Eric Wright

The Hays CISD Superintendent who stated that the school district 'does not, as an entity or as employees, use taxpayer time and resources to engage in political activity.'

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What they’re saying

“During the school day, our students are our responsibility and we're committed to the safety of our students in our community, regardless if they are on our campus.”

— Matias Segura, Austin ISD Superintendent (Austin ISD)

“The school district belongs to everyone and we do not, as an entity or as employees, use taxpayer time and resources to engage in political activity.”

— Eric Wright, Hays CISD Superintendent (Hays CISD)

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.