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Recent Editions

Education Slice
National
The Supreme Court's conservative majority indicated on Tuesday that it may require schools to provide opt-outs for parents objecting to LGBTQ+ books in elementary education. During oral arguments in Mahmoud v. Taylor, Justice Samuel Alito remarked: “The plaintiffs [a group of Muslim, Roman Catholic, and Ethiopian Orthodox parents] here are not asking the school to change its curriculum. They’re just saying, ‘look, we want out.’ What is the big deal about allowing them to opt out of this?” Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Justices Clarence Thomas, Neil M. Gorsuch, and Amy Coney Barrett also asked questions or made comments that suggested that they leaned toward the parents. The court's liberal justices argued that exposure to diverse ideas does not infringe on religious rights. The case involves the Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland, which approved books like “Prince & Knight” and “Born Ready,” aimed at promoting inclusivity. Critics of opt-out options warn it could lead to widespread curriculum disruptions. The 4th US Circuit Court of Appeals previously sided with the schools, stating that the evidence on how the books were used was insufficient to determine any religious burden. A decision in the case is expected by late June or early July.
Full Issue
Education Slice
California
As the federal government threatens funding cuts to school diversity programs, California has insisted that it already complies with federal law and that the Trump administration's actions illegal. The U.S. Department of Education has set an April 24 deadline for K-12 districts to certify compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin. Craig Trainor, the acting assistant secretary for civil rights, stated that many schools have violated their legal obligations by using diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs to discriminate. California's Department of Education has already certified compliance for the 2024-25 school year and argues that the threat to withhold federal funds is unlawful. While some districts, like Chino Valley Unified, have complied, others in Southern California report no formal requests for changes. The situation remains fluid as districts await further guidance from state officials.
Full Issue
Education Slice
Texas
Texas school leaders are expressing concerns over Senate Bill 1962, which would restrict their ability to legally contest changes to the state's school performance ratings. Gabriel Zamora, superintendent of Fort Stockton ISD, stated, “What we believe was a check and balance now doesn't exist.” Many superintendents fear that the bill will grant the Texas Education Agency (TEA) excessive power, undermining local governance. Despite their criticisms, school leaders opted not to testify against the bill due to fears of retaliation from lawmakers. The bill aims to end lawsuits that have delayed the release of performance ratings, which are crucial for parents and businesses. As one superintendent noted, “We have districts to run... We need to be here for our districts and our students.” The bill is currently under consideration in the Texas House.
Full Issue
Education Slice
Florida
In Florida, a new educational model known as "à la carte education" is transforming how families approach learning. This system allows students to select courses and extracurricular activities from various providers, rather than being confined to a single school. As David T. Marshall, an associate professor of educational research, notes, "One size rarely fits all when it comes to learning." With the expansion of Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) in 2023, nearly all Florida students can now customize their education. This flexibility benefits families with diverse needs, such as student-athletes or those requiring specialized courses. However, the model also presents challenges, as parents must coordinate multiple learning options. Despite these hurdles, approximately 100,000 Florida families are already taking advantage of this innovative approach, paving the way for a more personalized educational experience.
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