The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has released new guidance to school systems across the state regarding the consequences for student walkouts, unexcused absences, and the responsibilities of educators and districts. The agency reminded schools of their obligation to ensure students’ safety and attendance, noting that unexcused absences may result in disciplinary action.
According to the TEA, state law prohibits school systems from supporting or opposing political activism that disrupts learning during school hours. This includes using taxpayer-funded district resources to facilitate such activities. If a district is found violating these laws, the TEA stated it would investigate and could appoint a monitor, conservator, or board of managers as corrective measures.
Certified educators are also prohibited by state law from encouraging or facilitating students leaving class or school activities for political activism. Educators must adhere to the Educator Code of Ethics and local employment policies. The agency noted that violations by certified educators would be referred to SBEC Enforcement for possible sanctions through the State Board for Educator Certification.
The TEA encouraged individuals who have concerns not resolved through local grievance processes to submit complaints directly to the agency. “The agency thoroughly investigates each complaint received. If violations of law are found, the agency will take appropriate action to ensure that state law is upheld,” according to the TEA’s statement.
“Today, in classrooms across Texas, tomorrow’s leaders are learning the foundational, critical thinking skills and knowledge necessary for lifelong learning, serving as the bedrock for the future success of our state and nation. It is in this spirit that school systems have been reminded of their duty and obligation to ensure that their students are both safe and that they attend school, with consequences for students for unexcused absences.”
“State law prohibits school systems from supporting or opposing any forms of political activism that disrupts learning during the school day, including facilitation of political activism through the use of taxpayer-funded district resources. If a school system is found to be in violation of state law, the agency will investigate and take appropriate action, which can include the appointment of a monitor, conservator or board of managers.”
“State law also prohibits certified educators from encouraging or facilitating student departures from a class or school activity to engage in any form of political activism. Educators are also subject to all requirements in the Educator Code of Ethics and local employment guidelines. If findings related to violations of law by certified educators are made, such fundings will be referred to SBEC Enforcement, which will pursue enforcement actions with the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) to seek sanctions as warranted.”
“Individuals with any concerns not addressed in their school’s local grievance process should submit a complaint with the agency through [the official complaint process]. The agency thoroughly investigates each complaint received. If violations of law are found, the agency will take appropriate action to ensure that state law is upheld.”
