Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated legal proceedings against the Austin Independent School District (ISD) for allegedly violating state law by teaching critical race theory (CRT). This action aims to investigate whether there is an unwritten policy within the district to develop and teach CRT curricula, which would contravene Texas legislation.
The lawsuit seeks to depose the Superintendent and Board Trustees of Austin ISD. The investigation was prompted by reports received by the Office of the Attorney General about an Austin ISD official's statements suggesting that curricula linked to the 1619 Project, banned in Texas, were being used. Another employee reportedly discussed methods to circumvent the state's CRT ban and mentioned the involvement of the District’s Board and Superintendent in setting policies.
Attorney General Paxton expressed strong disapproval, stating: “It’s outrageous that Austin ISD officials think they can ignore state law to put woke indoctrination in Texas classrooms.” He emphasized that his office is pursuing depositions from district leaders as part of a thorough investigation into potential violations related to CRT curriculum. Paxton reiterated his commitment to ensuring Texas school officials prioritize providing students with a quality education free from "liberal, anti-American ideology."