Texas Attorney General Investigates Austin ISD for 'Woke Indoctrination'

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated legal proceedings against the Austin Independent School District (AISD), alleging that the district has breached state law by incorporating materials associated with Critical Race Theory (CRT), which includes elements related to the prohibited 1619 Project.

On Monday, Paxton’s office announced that it is initiating the process to depose the Superintendent and Board of Trustees of the Austin Independent School District (AISD). The depositions are a crucial element of an ongoing investigation aimed at uncovering the existence of an unofficial yet systemic policy that may be incorporating CRT-related curriculum into classrooms, potentially violating Texas law.

“This investigation aims to uphold the rule of law,” Paxton remarked. Austin ISD officials are facing criticism for allegedly disregarding state law in favor of what some are calling woke indoctrination in Texas classrooms. This has sparked outrage among concerned citizens and stakeholders in the education system.

Reports indicate that the Attorney General’s office has highlighted concerns regarding AISD staff allegedly suggesting that the district persist in utilizing materials from the 1619 Project, despite the prohibition in Texas. A district employee has been reported to have indicated that there are “ways to get around” restrictions on CRT. The complaint further asserts that the AISD Board and the Superintendent are actively involved in curriculum decisions, enhancing their accountability.

The 1619 Project, first introduced by The New York Times, offers a new perspective on American history, emphasizing the enduring impact of slavery. The issue has emerged as a focal point in national discussions regarding teaching race and history in public education. In 2021, Texas legislators enacted a ban on implementing the project's curriculum within public education systems.

A new legal challenge has emerged as part of Paxton’s ongoing efforts to combat what he refers to as “woke ideology” within Texas educational institutions. Opponents contend that the action is driven by political motives and is part of a larger effort to suppress open conversations regarding race and history in educational settings.

The AISD has yet to provide an official statement regarding the ongoing lawsuit and the upcoming depositions.

The results of this investigation may establish a significant benchmark for the management of comparable cases throughout Texas, amid escalating discussions surrounding education and curriculum.