EducationFebruary 16, 2026

Students Walk Out in Texas: School Protests and State Warnings

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② Start Lesson

Key Vocabulary

walkout/ˈwɔːkˌaʊt/

When students leave class together to show protest.

"Students planned a walkout to show their message."

protest/prəˈtɛst/

An action to show strong disagreement or support.

"They held a protest on the school lawn."

immigrant/ˈɪm.ɪ.ɡrənt/

A person who moves to a new country to live.

"Many students spoke for immigrant neighbors."

Listening

Students Walk Out in Texas: School Protests and State Warnings

In February 2026, students in Texas walked out of class to protest U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Hundreds of young people left schools in cities such as Houston and Dallas. They carried signs and chanted for immigrant families.

Governor Greg Abbott warned schools that allow walkouts could lose funding. The Texas Education Agency also warned of penalties for disruptions during the school day. Many students said they were afraid for their families. Teachers and parents watched and some joined the marches. Students said they want safer schools and to protect immigrant neighbors.

93 words

Quiz

1. Who warned schools that allow walkouts could lose funding?

2. Where did students walk out?

3. When did some walkouts start?

Reading Practice

Read the article from the Listening section aloud. Your AI teacher will give you pronunciation feedback.

Discussion

Do you feel safe at your school when students protest in the school day? Why or why not?

Have you ever joined or seen a peaceful protest? What happened?

What do you think happens when students speak up for their community?