Hundreds gather at Houston City Hall to protest new leadership at HISD and NES

HOUSTON, TX – On Saturday morning, May 25, hundreds of concerned Houstonians gathered at Houston City Hall to participate in what was called the “March to Save HISD Staff and Students.” The protest, which began at 9:30 a.m., brought together community leaders, parents, teachers, students, principals, custodians, closure specialists, librarians and other supporters who rallied against the current leadership of the Houston Independent School District (HISD). It was to take place until 11:00 a.m.

The rally at 901 Bagby Street was held near the City Hall Reflection Pond in a powerful display of community solidarity. Participants carried signs. Together, they chanted slogans. Together, they expressed their determination to protect the integrity and future of Houston’s schools.

The purpose of the rally was to demand transparency regarding data, budget, and recent resignations and forced layoffs within HISD. Protesters called for a halt to the expansion of the New Education System (NES) and an end to the NES experiment altogether. Other concerning demands expressed included the restoration of libraries to all schools, the return of full services, the firing of Mike Miles, and an end to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) takeover.

Speakers at the event included HISD parents Corey Flores, Jessica Campos and Dionna Johnson, former HISD teacher Melissa Yarborough, Senator-elect Molly Cook, Rep. Gene Wu and Rep. Ron Reynolds. Each speaker voiced their concerns and spoke publicly about their personal experiences with the changes under Mike Miles and the newly elected HISD Board of Trustees.

The successful participation and passionate speeches highlighted the community’s commitment to opposing what they view as harmful policies and leadership within HISD. Organizers and participants stressed the need for continued support and vigilance to ensure their voices are heard and their demands met.

The march to save HISD staff and students marked an important moment in the fight for the future of Houston’s education system, demonstrating that the community will not tolerate the dismantling of its schools without a fight.

This is an evolving story that we are monitoring closely. Tune in to CW39 NO WAIT WEATHER + TRAFFIC for more updates every weekday morning starting at 5:30 a.m.