In response to a recent increase in student-led protests against immigration policies and enforcement, the Austin Independent School District (Austin ISD) announced updates to its protest protocols. The district, which serves more than 72,000 students and employs over 5,000 classroom teachers across 116 diverse school communities, will implement the new guidelines starting Monday, February 9.
The updated protocols state that on-campus walkouts within 300 feet of the building will be monitored by administrators and Austin ISD Police. If a walkout moves more than 300 feet from campus, administrators and staff will remain on campus while law enforcement follows students for safety. Once off campus, local law enforcement will monitor students.
Additionally, Austin ISD has clarified staff expectations in accordance with guidelines released by the Texas Education Agency this week. Staff are not permitted to participate in or endorse student-sponsored protest activities unless directed to do so for safety and monitoring purposes only. Teachers must remain in class with students who do not participate in walkouts. Staff may only direct students planning a walkout to notify the principal of those plans. Materials may not be distributed in classrooms unless approved as part of a curricular activity.
Staff are encouraged to exercise their constitutional rights to participate in political activity but must do so on their own time or by taking leave. Instructional personnel may discuss political issues with students as part of the instructional program if they follow district guidelines ensuring balanced discussion. Staff may not participate in political campaigns during work hours or use Austin ISD facilities for campaign purposes. Employees and representatives are prohibited from wearing or displaying campaign items at work or on school property.
Administrators will consult with the Offices of the General Counsel and Professional Standards regarding any staff member who violates these policies or when seeking guidance on staff expectations.
Superintendent Matias Segura stated: “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.”
He added: “We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we navigate through these events. If you have any questions, please connect with your campus leadership. Thank you for your support of Austin ISD.”
Austin ISD supports a multicultural environment where over 100 languages are spoken by students and provides instruction in more than 100 languages across its schools according to its official website. The district maintains a graduation rate of 93.3 percent—above state averages—and focuses on partnering with families and the community to equip students for success beyond high school (source).
The district has also developed FAQs for families seeking more information about its policies regarding demonstrations.
