A Texas federal jury delivered a resounding $7.5 million verdict against school officials who trampled parents’ First Amendment rights, proving everyday Americans can hold government bullies accountable.
Story Highlights
- Federal jury in Waco awards $7.5M to parents and students after Marlin ISD retaliated for public criticism of canceled graduation.
- Unanimous rejection of qualified immunity; over $4M in punitive damages against ex-Superintendent Henson and Police Chief Simmons.
- Officials altered grades, issued trespass bans, and sent cease-and-desist letters to silence dissent, violating constitutional protections.
- Pacific Justice Institute hails verdict as landmark win for parental rights and free speech against abusive school administrators.
- Precedent deters government overreach, empowering families nationwide under President Trump’s pro-freedom agenda.
Graduation Cancellation Sparks Outrage
On May 22, 2023, Marlin ISD Superintendent Dr. Darryl Henson announced the postponement of the Class of 2023 high school graduation, claiming only five seniors qualified. Trial testimony later revealed most students met eligibility requirements, exposing the decision as baseless. Parents Monica Johnson, Clifford Jones, and Brandolyn Jones voiced criticism through social media posts and petitions. Johnson launched a petition demanding Henson’s removal, rallying community support against the arbitrary cancellation.
Retaliation Targets Critics
District officials responded with swift reprisals. Johnson received a one-year trespass ban from school property. Students Praiyer Jones and Addai Jones suffered post-school-year grade reductions. Johnson’s daughter, valedictorian Me’Kia Mouling, lost her speech opportunity and had her rank altered. West & Associates LLP sent cease-and-desist letters on February 12, 2024, accusing plaintiffs of defamation. Henson personally ruled on grievances filed against him, denying due process.
Lawsuit Prevails in Federal Court
Plaintiffs exhausted Texas Education Agency and district grievance processes before filing Johnson v. Henson in February 2024. A week-long trial in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas in Waco concluded on January 21, 2026. The unanimous jury found violations of First and Fourteenth Amendment rights under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, plus discrimination against Addai Jones under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Punitive damages totaled over $4 million, with $3,753,437 against Henson and $254,762 against Simmons.
This verdict pierces qualified immunity defenses, affirming that school leaders cannot wield public authority to punish speech. Pacific Justice Institute attorney Janelle Davis declared public officials cannot silence parents or students for speaking out. PJI President Brad Dacus emphasized the jury upheld First Amendment principles, placing officials under the law.
Victory Reinforces Parental Rights
Marlin ISD now reviews the verdict for post-trial motions or appeals, citing federal liability standards. The $7.5 million award burdens the small rural district’s taxpayers, likely prompting leadership changes and policy reforms. This case aligns with broader Pacific Justice Institute efforts defending parental speech rights, rejecting the district’s “misinformation campaign” claims outright.
The outcome empowers families to challenge school overreach without fear, especially vital in 2026 as President Trump’s administration dismantles woke indoctrination in education. Short-term financial strain on defendants signals accountability; long-term, it deters retaliation nationwide, bolstering Section 1983 claims against errant administrators. Communities gain precedent for oversight, while rising litigation may hike insurance costs and enforce fair grievance handling.
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Jury Awards $7.5M After Marlin ISD Punished Parents for Criticism
