You’ve heard it before; Republican Governors say they want to replace Common Core with a
unique statewide educational policy. Local, local, local!!!
Except when they don’t. Are ready for another right wing lie?
What does a supposed Wisconsin "centered" curriculum really looks
like under conservative authority rule:
WSJ: A 6-year-old student went to school at Mount Horeb Primary Center with a new public identity. It was her first day introducing herself to classmates as the girl her mother says “she really is.” In an effort to support the student’s transition from male to female, and to help her young classmates understand, the school had planned to read and discuss the book “I Am Jazz,” the true story of Jazz Jennings, a transgender girl who stars in a TLC reality show named after the book.
But the reading didn’t happen after the Liberty Counsel, a Florida-based religious conservative organization, threatened to sue the school district for teaching the book and overstepping parental rights.
Florida!!!? This is an early warning shot that can't be ignored. The threat of a simple lawsuit is powerful, and could
bankrupt or severely limit local school districts. Think about it, outside groups from
anywhere in the country can call the shots. And they can do this over any issue they don't support.
Same goes for Local Transgender Restroom policies: While
districts were developing their own plans, with local input, the national right
wing opposition to transgender restrooms prompted state Republicans to create a “separate
but equal” policy, bestowing second class status to kids seeking support. Do we really want another battle against the supposed "gay agenda?"
That’s why this is so dangerous. It nurtures fear and distrust in future adults, a core right wing value:
Parent Amy Lyle said that the Primary Center’s initial decision to read the book excited her and her husband because it showed that the schools were looking to shed some light on a subject that is becoming more open in our society.
“We firmly believe that education and information creates informed and compassionate children who turn into compassionate and respectful adults. It’s our obligation to provide the information. Families can have their own discussions outside the school, but the information should be provided. I don’t know if there is a more important lesson to be taught in our schools (than inclusion).”
