Texas

San Antonio’s North East Independent School District (NEISD) is under investigation by the Texas Attorney General’s office, along with Dallas ISD and Manor ISD, over allegations of “facilitating” student protests against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions. The investigations, announced Monday by Attorney General Ken Paxton, center on concerns that school administrations and staff may have orchestrated the walkouts and failed to adequately ensure student safety during the demonstrations. This action comes amid a broader conservative backlash to student activism regarding immigration enforcement policies.

The Attorney General’s office alleges that the school districts took “little to no action” to maintain safety and prevent disruptions to classroom instruction. Paxton’s statement indicated his office will examine district policies regarding student absences, campus security, and internal communications related to the protests. The investigation into NEISD specifically focuses on a student walkout that occurred at Churchill High School on January 29, according to a district spokesperson.

NEISD officials stated they are fully cooperating with the investigation and are gathering documentation for review. “In the spirit of transparency, we are providing additional documentation for other schools as well,” the spokesperson said. The district maintains that prior guidance to staff regarding student protests was consistent with guidance later issued by the Texas Education Agency (TEA), emphasizing the role of staff in supervising students, maintaining a safe learning environment, and remaining professionally neutral. The district reminded staff not to encourage, endorse, discourage, or attempt to persuade students regarding participation in walkouts or protests.

The investigations follow a wave of student walkouts across Texas, beginning in January, in response to recent ICE operations and federal immigration policies. Hundreds of students participated in these protests, calling for the dismantling of ICE. A Kyle resident was arrested earlier this month after a physical altercation with students participating in a walkout in Buda, highlighting the potential for escalating tensions during these events.

Paxton Alleges Orchestration, Cites “Radical Left” Agenda

Attorney General Paxton has been vocal in his opposition to the protests, claiming they are fueled by a “radical Left’s open borders agenda.” In a released statement, Paxton warned that his office would use “every legal tool available” to hold accountable any school official who “unlawfully facilitates student participation in protests targeting our heroic law enforcement officers.” The investigations are raising concerns about potential funding cuts or increased state oversight for the districts involved, as suggested by Governor Greg Abbott.

The Texas Education Agency has similarly warned that districts found to have facilitated walkouts could face state intervention. Paxton is demanding that the three school districts – NEISD, Dallas ISD, and Manor ISD – provide information regarding policies on student absences, campus security protocols, and internal communications related to the protests.

NEISD’s Response to Student Protests

On January 29, NEISD communicated with parents regarding the student protests, acknowledging students’ rights to express their views while prioritizing safety and a productive learning environment. The district stated that students participating in walkouts would be considered truant, resulting in an unexcused absence. Disciplinary consequences, ranging from detention to out-of-school suspension, would be applied if the protests created significant disruptions or posed a physical danger to others.

Campus administration was instructed to monitor potential walkouts, communicate with law enforcement, and inform faculty and families of any developments. The district also encouraged families to discuss the potential dangers and consequences of participating in protests with their students.

Broader Context: San Antonio’s Response to ICE

The investigations into the school districts are occurring alongside ongoing efforts by city leaders in San Antonio to challenge ICE’s presence in the area. ICE recently purchased an East Side warehouse intended to function as a detention facility, prompting debate and opposition from community groups and elected officials. Last week, the San Antonio City Council considered options to halt the facility’s opening, including “recognize your rights” training, logging alleged civil rights violations, and lobbying for federal action.

The situation remains fluid as the Attorney General’s investigations proceed. The outcome of these investigations could have significant implications for student activism and the role of school districts in managing politically charged demonstrations. The next step will be the districts’ response to Paxton’s demands for documentation, and a review of that information by the Attorney General’s office.

This represents a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available. Share your thoughts and reactions in the comments below.