High school students in several deep-blue cities are once again choosing activism over academics, ditching class to attend anti-ICE protests instead of, you know, learning. In Los Angeles, that decision turned violent when a law enforcement officer was hit in the head with a pole during a so-called “peaceful” demonstration. Education in action.

According to reports, at least one officer was injured during the chaos. Video from the scene showed a protester swinging a pole and striking an officer twice in the head. It remains unclear whether that individual was the one officially listed as hurt, but the message was clear: this wasn’t a study hall.

The pattern isn’t new. Students in blue cities have been regularly skipping school to join anti–U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement rallies, while many of the same schools posting abysmal academic results seem more interested in politics than performance. And consequences? Rare. In many cases, teachers and administrators reportedly cheer them on or even join the walkouts themselves. Truly inspiring leadership.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California Bill Essayli reacted sharply on X, condemning the violence and promising accountability. “Where are the parents?” he asked. A fair question — though judging by the culture in these cities, some of them may be busy protesting too.

This is what years of activist governance produce: a culture of constant protest where classrooms are optional and law enforcement is a target. Instead of discipline and education, students get slogans and street marches.

The good news? While the noise continues, there are still adults — and leaders — focused on restoring order, supporting law enforcement, and getting America back to basics: real education, real accountability, and real respect for the rule of law. And that’s a lesson worth learning.