Texas Watchdogs

A Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Texas Public Information Act

In Texas, you have the legal right to access information held by your child’s school district. Whether you’re trying to understand hiring decisions, disciplinary actions, or budget allocations, the Texas Public Information Act (PIA) guarantees your right to know.

This article walks you through exactly how to request records from your school district—what to ask for, how to submit it, and what to do if you’re ignored.

🔍 Know Your Rights Under Texas Law

The Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code Chapter 552) ensures that government records are available to the public. That includes public schools, school districts, and education agencies.

“Public information” means any document, email, text message, video, or other record created, received, or maintained by a government body in the course of official business.

Key rights under the PIA:

• You can request information without having to explain why.
• Requests can be made by any person—parents, community members, or journalists.
• Districts must respond within 10 business days.
• You’re entitled to receive records in a digital format if requested.

For more legal detail, see: Texas Attorney General – Public Information Handbook

✍️ How to Submit a Request

Step 1: Find the Right Contact

Search your district’s website for the Public Information Officer (PIO) or the Superintendent’s Office. Some districts have a dedicated email or online portal.

Look for terms like:

• “Public Information Request”
• “Texas Public Information Act”
• “Open Records Request”

If you can’t find the right email, call the administrative office and ask who handles PIA requests.

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Step 2: Write the Request

Here’s a simple, legally sound template you can copy:

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Subject: Texas Public Information Act Request

To Whom It May Concern,

Under the Texas Public Information Act, I am requesting the following information:

[List what you’re requesting—be specific. Example:]

• A copy of the employment contract and resume of [Name of Employee]
• All disciplinary actions related to staff at [School Name] from Jan 2022 to present
• Copies of internal communication regarding [specific incident]

Please provide this information in electronic format. If there are any charges associated with fulfilling this request, please inform me before proceeding.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Email Address]

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Step 3: Track the Clock

By law, the district must:

• Acknowledge your request within 10 business days
• Provide the records promptly, or notify you of delays or exceptions

If they claim an exemption (e.g., FERPA or legal privilege), they must request a ruling from the Texas Attorney General.

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Step 4: If You’re Ignored or Denied

If the district doesn’t respond, or delays without justification, you can:

1. File a complaint with the Texas Attorney General’s Open Records Division: 📧 openrecords@oag.texas.gov 📞 (512) 478-6736
2. Reach out to us at Texas Watchdogs We’ll help you escalate or publish the story behind your request. Send your request and any correspondence to: LTISD@protonmail.com

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📝 What You Can Request

Parents commonly request:

• Staff criminal background checks
• Employee contracts and hiring dates
• Emails or text messages related to incidents
• Video surveillance of hallways or classrooms
• Budget reports for specific programs
• Records of child abuse investigations (with redactions as required)

You can request nearly any non-confidential information that exists. The district cannot require you to use a specific form or explain your reasoning.

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✅ Best Practices

• Be clear and specific (ask for date ranges and keywords)
• Use email—it creates a paper trail
• Request digital copies to reduce fees
• Follow up on the 11th business day if you don’t get a reply
• Save all emails and responses for your records

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Parents Are the First Line of Oversight

Don’t let school districts hide behind bureaucracy. The law is on your side. And if they resist? We’re here to help.

📩 Send us your request and we’ll review it

📧 Texas_watchdogs_Tips@proton.me

Together, we’ll make sure no school, district, or administrator is above accountability.