Thousands of Houston ISD students skipped school as parents and students protested against Superintendent Mike Miles and the state-appointed board of managers. The protest, organized by Community Voices for Public Education, opposed district reforms that critics say hurt students and teachers.
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Nearly 3,000 seats were empty in Houston ISD on Wednesday because of a mass sick-out and protest against the state-appointed board and Superintendent Mike Miles. The rally, organized by Community Voices for Public Education, happened outside Wharton Dual Language Academy and other schools. Students and parents held signs and shouted, "Fire Mike Miles!"
Parents were upset about the significant changes made after the Texas Education Agency (TEA) took control of the school in 2023 because Wheatley High School was not performing well. Critics argue that Miles’ leadership has caused teacher layoffs, decreased student participation, and too much focus on standardized tests.
"We've sent letters and emails." Parent Darcy La Rotta kept her girls home and said, "We've tried other ways to show that the community is unhappy."
HISD officials criticized the protest, calling it "completely irresponsible." District spokesperson Alexandra Elizondo supported the administration, saying that the changes would help students graduate and succeed.
Despite the criticism, protesters believe their worries have been overlooked and that intense action is needed. "La Rotta said, 'This was our final chance to be listened to.'"
As neighborhood tensions rise, the discussion about HISD's future continues without any signs of stopping.
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