by Marlin, TX – In a landmark decision for parental rights and free speech, a federal jury found that officials from Marlin Independent School District (ISD) unlawfully retaliated against parents who publicly criticized the district, violating their constitutional rights. The jury awarded five plaintiffs more than $7.5 million, including $4 million in punitive damages against former superintendent Dr. Darryl Henson and Chief of Police John Simmons.
The case, filed by the Pacific Justice Institute (PJI), stems from a series of retaliatory actions following parental complaints over a controversial decision to delay a high school graduation in May 2023.
Incident Overview
The plaintiffs—Monica Johnson, Clifford and Brandolyn Jones, and their children, Praiyer and Addai Jones—publicly challenged Marlin ISD after Henson announced only five seniors were eligible to graduate, sparking controversy. Johnson even created a petition calling for Henson’s removal.
According to PJI, the district responded with a pattern of retaliation: Johnson was removed from a public meeting, received a criminal trespass warning, and her children faced grade reductions after the school year ended. Additionally, valedictorian Me’Kia Mouling, Johnson’s daughter, was barred from delivering her valedictorian speech, and her class rank was altered, accompanied by repeated public taunting.
“School officials also changed Me’Kia’s class rank and repeatedly taunted Ms. Johnson about it during a public meeting,” PJI stated.
Timeline of Events
- 2017: Marlin ISD taken over by the state; Henson hired during the takeover.
- 2022: District improved accountability ratings for the first time in a decade, with 28% of students at grade level.
- 2024: Gradual improvement continued, with a transition out of state control set for Jan. 31, 2026.
- May 2023: Graduation controversy occurs. Parents publicly protest and file grievances.
- Feb. 2024: Parents file federal lawsuit citing violations of the First and Fourteenth Amendments; Addai Jones also claims a violation under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
The jury heard testimony revealing that nearly the entire senior class had been eligible to graduate, contradicting the district’s original claims. Prior complaints to the Texas Education Agency and internal grievances were effectively dismissed, as Henson “investigated himself,” according to PJI.
Details From Legal Proceedings
The parents faced additional legal intimidation prior to filing their lawsuit. They received cease-and-desist letters from West & Associates LLP, the law firm representing Marlin ISD and associated with state Senator Royce West, D-Dallas, which alleged their social media posts were defamatory.
In response, the parents filed suit in February 2024, arguing their rights were infringed. The district later claimed it had endured a “relentless campaign of misinformation” over 14 months. The jury, however, unanimously rejected these claims and sided with the parents.
“This verdict sends a clear message that public officials cannot use their authority to silence parents or punish students for speaking out,” said PJI lead attorney Janelle Davis.
The jury awarded punitive damages of $3,753,437 against Henson and $254,762 against Simmons, in addition to nominal and compensatory damages for the plaintiffs.
Broader Context: Parental Rights and Free Speech in Schools
The case underscores the constitutional protections afforded to parents and students under the First Amendment, particularly the right to challenge government misconduct without fear of retaliation. PJI President Brad Dacus emphasized that the verdict reinforces that public school officials are not above the law and must be held accountable for violations.
“This jury stood up for the First Amendment and reminded every school district that the Constitution is not optional,” Dacus said.
The lawsuit also highlights challenges parents faced under previous grievance processes, in which complaints could be reviewed by those being complained about. Recent parental rights laws have since changed this process to prevent conflicts of interest.
Response From Marlin ISD
Following the verdict, Marlin ISD issued a statement indicating it is reviewing the decision with its legal team and considering post-trial motions. The district noted that municipal liability and qualified immunity remain factors under federal law and declined further comment pending judicial review.
Conclusion
A federal jury awarded more than $7.5 million to parents after finding that Marlin ISD officials unlawfully retaliated against public complaints, violating constitutional rights. The unanimous verdict, including $4 million in punitive damages, reaffirms the importance of parental advocacy, free speech, and accountability in public schools.
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