The news that Attorney General Ken Paxton's office has filed a lawsuit against Aledo ISD over “illegal” electioneering is funny on several levels.
The East Parker County School District was recently accused by the OAG of violating the Texas Elections Act prohibition on using state or local resources for campaigning for or against candidates, policies, or political parties. It is one of the school districts that has been exposed to
Situations between Aledo and at least three other school districts vary, but all appear geared toward a battle over school vouchers.
However, some have better benefits than others.
The complaint against Denison ISD documents a February post on the district's website about voucher opposition by lawmakers and school leaders. One part of the post thanked local state representatives for school support, while another linked to a teacher pay resolution that called voucher programs a threat to public education funding.
According to the OAG, the lawsuit against Castleberry ISD alleges that its superintendent used her official email to oppose enrollment assistance and to “endorse lists of political candidates who stuck their necks out to vote for us.” '' after being accused of transmitting a “transfer,'' which was resolved with an injunction,'' according to the filing.
Frisco ISD lawsuit alleges the district used two social media posts to encourage people to vote for candidates opposed to school aid and influence voting in “particular party primaries” has not responded yet.
But if you examine these posts, you'll see that they're simply stating the obvious: whoever wins the party's primary is most likely to win in the November general election.
This is similar to our feeling about Aledo not being in the news after being accused of illegal elections in a Feb. 20 email that said state leaders prioritized vouchers over school funding. There is. They also point out that schools participate in voting, and that primaries impact communities and public education every day.
Where is the lie? And where is the “election campaign”?
Meanwhile, the school district fired back in a statement Friday night, saying after discussions with its attorneys, it is “clear” that the cited emails do not constitute charges.
“In all aspects, we strive to be transparent and keep our community and staff well-informed,” the statement said. “We also believe that exercising the right to vote is a civic duty that should be encouraged and promoted.”
As school funding is one of the key battleground issues heading into Tuesday's primary election day, this latest witch hunt by the attorney general seeks to prevent the public from truly understanding the black and white of school funding. It smells like despair. It also panders to Gov. Greg Abbott and his efforts to pass school voucher legislation.
Shouldn't Paxton be more concerned with preparing for his April trial on securities fraud charges?
These people we keep re-electing as “the ones who represent us” have proven time and time again that they are only representing themselves.
It's also worth noting that the Texas Tribune reported last week that Abbott is “definitely” on Donald Trump's short list of running mates in his 2024 presidential campaign.
And if that happens, you can bet your bottom Paxton will be eyeing that replacement seat.
Our ISD and educators have proven their resilience time and time again in dealing with reduced support from the government, but more are considering leaving the profession. And who can blame them?
Going forward, we will always keep this time in our minds and honor those who voted for their communities and those who just want to force their policies down our throats. It would be wise to remember that.
