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In recent years, the far-right in Florida has chipped away at public education... Friend, Last week, the SPLC released a new statewide survey that shows most Floridians believe that a quality K-12 public education is a right, and that Florida should invest more in educating young people while allowing professional educators to guide curricula free from political influence. In recent years, far-right legislators in Florida have chipped away at public education, taking millions of dollars away from public schools through the expansion of school vouchers — all to the detriment of public school students. Additionally, small but vocal anti-student inclusion groups like Moms for Liberty continue to push for book bans and dangerous policies that target LGBTQ+ and Black and Brown children across the state, touting these efforts as “parental rights.” Over 80% said that K-12 education is a right and funding for public schools should be increased, a notion that runs counter to the harmful rhetoric spread by state leaders that public schools are failing our students. The findings also show that most parents disapprove of removing books from school for any reason. In addition, 92% of Florida parents and 90% of the general adult population want public school curriculum created by education professionals, not by elected officials who are looking to push unpopular policies that censor classroom curriculum and discussion on race, gender identity and expression. Recognizing the cost of these harmful policies, the leadership of the Florida Senate this month decided to abandon book bans and other bills that target Black and LGBTQ+ communities. Although Florida’s reputation as a battleground for public school education persists, the result of this published survey sends a clear message to the far right: Public school education is incredibly popular and most believe it contributes significantly to the future and well-being of our communities. The SPLC will continue to fight for equity in our public school system and ensure that every student has the right to show up as their authentic selves in school and learn the truth about our nation’s history. You can read the full report here. Thank you for your continued support. Sincerely, Your friends at the Southern Poverty Law Center |
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