Book-banning move: The Florida Citizens Alliance says it has identified about 100 textbooks and library books in state schools that are “pornographic,” preach religious “indoctrination,” push “unbalanced propaganda” relating to climate change and violate Florida laws. It wants them removed, and many fear that the group, which has influence with the governor and Legislature, could accomplish that through a pair of proposed bills that would restrict decisions on textbooks by local school officials. Critics of H.B. 855 and S.B. 1454 are organizing to fight back. Gradebook.
Spending on guardians: A review of state records indicates that sheriffs are receiving little oversight in how they spend the millions of dollars they’re getting through the state’s Coach Aaron Feis Guardian Program to protect schools. In Brevard County, for instance, Sheriff Wayne Ivey has bought a $125,000 simulator to recreate active-shooter situations. Money has gone for training, salaries, weapons, ammunition, and for uniforms, background checks, insurance, warning signs, staples and more. Some counties with few students received more than much larger counties. Department of Education spokeswoman Cheryl Etters says, “Other than ensuring that each district’s budget appropriation meets the statutory requirements, the department is not involved in oversight.” Florida Today.
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