Texas Students Protest ICE Despite Gov. Greg Abbott’s Threats

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by J. David Goodman, Mary Beth Gahan and Callie Holtermann

February 15, 2026

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Texas students have joined a national wave of protests against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies, with more than three dozen states participating in walkouts to express their defiance. In Texas, where over half of public school students are Hispanic, the movement has gained significant momentum despite threats from state officials. Gov. Greg Abbott has warned that schools allowing such demonstrations could face severe consequences, including loss of state funding and potential arrests for disorderly students. The Texas Education Agency has also cautioned that districts facilitating these protests may be taken over by the state. Across the country, students have displayed varying forms of protest. In Utah, teenagers carried backpacks and bullhorns as they walked out of schools in Salt Lake County. Similarly, in Maine, students gathered on a bridge over the Kennebec River, while in Maryland, their actions caused highway traffic to halt. These demonstrations highlight a growing national sentiment against ICE enforcement tactics under the Trump administration. In Texas, the situation is particularly charged. Students have continued to protest despite Abbott's threats, showcasing their determination to challenge what they view as unjust policies. The governor's harsh stance has drawn criticism, with many arguing that education should not be punished for student activism. This tension underscores a broader debate in the U.S. about immigration enforcement and the role of schools in addressing societal issues. The persistence of these protests, even in the face of potential repercussions, speaks to the power of youth-led movements in shaping public discourse. These actions matter because they challenge authority while advocating for justice and equality, reflecting a deeper societal struggle over

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/15/2026