Following the death of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, Florida Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas announced an investigation into educators who made offensive online comments about the incident. Certified educators are bound by ethical guidelines, and violations could lead to revocation of their teaching certificates. Kamoutsas emphasized that First Amendment rights do not supersede professional duties, and public comments that undermine trust with students and families are unacceptable. Additionally, Lake County Commissioner Anthony Sabatini is proposing to rename a major roadway in honor of Kirk.
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The Florida Board of Education has eliminated certificates of completion for students with disabilities unable to earn a standard diploma, as per a new state law. This change, effective this year, leaves some students with severe disabilities without formal recognition upon graduation, potentially limiting their post-secondary opportunities and employment prospects. Concerns are raised that this move could exacerbate existing educational disparities and undermine incentives for these students. While the Department of Education emphasizes a shift towards alternative pathways to a diploma, this decision contrasts with recent legislative efforts to expand support and services for individuals with disabilities.
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Despite a 30-year-old state mandate, the teaching of African American history in Florida remains inconsistent and inadequate, prompting community initiatives to fill the gap. Many families lack confidence in public schools’ ability to provide comprehensive instruction, citing limitations to well-known figures and infrequent coverage beyond Black History Month. This inadequacy is further exacerbated by recent state laws restricting discussions of race and history in schools, hindering educators and leading to the creation of independent Black history programs. Consequently, community organizations and churches are stepping up to provide the vital historical education lacking in many Florida schools.
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John Q. Hosedrinker