The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has released new guidance for school systems regarding student walkouts, absences, and the responsibilities of educators and districts. The agency emphasized that students are expected to attend school and that unexcused absences may result in consequences.
According to the TEA, state law prohibits school systems from supporting or opposing political activism that disrupts learning during the school day. This includes using taxpayer-funded district resources to facilitate such activities. If a school system is found violating this law, the agency will investigate and may take actions such as appointing a monitor, conservator, or board of managers.
Certified educators are also prohibited by state law from encouraging or facilitating students leaving class or school activities for political activism. Educators must follow all requirements outlined in the Educator Code of Ethics and local employment guidelines. If violations by certified educators are identified, findings will be referred to SBEC Enforcement for possible sanctions through the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC).
The TEA encourages individuals with concerns not resolved through their local grievance process to submit complaints directly to the agency. Each complaint is investigated thoroughly, and if legal violations are found, appropriate action will be taken.
“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 . 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.”
