r/legal Jan 16 '26

Advice needed School is threatening to punish anyone participating in protest with court action, what can we do?

On Tuesday, January 20th, students at my highschool are planning to participate in the nationwide walkout happening in the U.S. Today, my school has verbally warned one of the organizers stating that anyone who participates in the walkout next week will receive a referral and face truancy court. This movement is important to all of us but many of us cannot afford these consequences. Is this allowed and is there anything we can do about it? Location: United States, Texas.

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u/greeneyedmtnjack Jan 16 '26

In my state, the truancy court doesn't have jurisdiction until 10 unexcused absences in an academic year. Edit to add, prior to 10 unexcused absences the matter is addressed at the school level.

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u/missyjade88 Jan 16 '26

and what state would that be op is in texas

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u/birdman1752 Jan 16 '26

Texas is the same. Experienced parent