Introduction to the Conflict
Michelle Williams, a third-grade teacher at Benbrook Elementary and the leader of the Houston Education Association, has been removed from her classroom and placed on "home duty" with pay, effective immediately. This action is the latest in a series of disciplinary measures taken by the Houston Independent School District (HISD) against Williams, who is a vocal critic of the district’s state-appointed leadership.
Background on Michelle Williams
Williams has been a teacher at HISD for several years and has been an outspoken critic of the district’s administration, particularly since the Texas Education Agency’s takeover of HISD in 2023. She has also been critical of state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles and his implementation of instructional reforms and changes to how teachers are evaluated and compensated. Williams regularly speaks out at school board meetings, advocating for the rights of teachers, parents, and students.
The Current Incident
The current incident began when Williams was notified that she would be required to attend a grievance hearing with the district on Wednesday. The hearing was related to a grievance she had filed against HISD for not holding consultations with her union. Williams had alerted the school to her necessary absence from class to attend the hearing, but according to the district, she failed to follow campus protocols by not returning to class after the hearing and not reporting her absence in the district’s online system.
Response from Michelle Williams
Williams disputes the district’s allegations, stating that she had planned to return to class after the hearing but was concerned about potential retaliation from the district. She also acknowledges that she has not recently followed directives from the school to implement certain instructional models, which she claims are "unethical" and "illegal" and do not serve her students. Williams plans to consult with a lawyer about her next steps and is considering taking further action against the district.
HISD’s Statement
In response to the situation, HISD released a statement saying that the district will not comment on individual personnel matters. The statement emphasized that while the district respects the right of every employee to express their opinions, employees are expected to perform their job duties and follow supervisors’ directives. The district’s priority is ensuring an effective teacher in every classroom for every student.
Previous Incidents
This is not the first time Williams has been removed from her classroom. In March 2024, she was removed from her second-grade classroom at Shadowbriar Elementary for what the district called "inappropriate conduct." After a two-day hearing, an independent examiner recommended that she be reinstated. Williams believes that both incidents were in retaliation for her public criticism of the district.
Conclusion
The situation with Michelle Williams highlights the ongoing tensions between teachers and the administration in the Houston Independent School District. Williams’ removal from her classroom has sparked concerns about the district’s treatment of teachers who speak out against its policies. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the district will respond to Williams’ claims and what further actions she may take. One thing is certain, however: the conflict between Williams and the district is far from over, and its outcome will have significant implications for the future of education in Houston.
