THE CALIFORNIA EDUCATION DATA SWAMP: WHERE INCEST IS BEST WHEN YOU DO IT WITH DATA

 

THE CALIFORNIA EDUCATION DATA SWAMP: WHERE INCEST IS BEST WHEN YOU DO IT WITH DATA

If you thought the California education system was a hot mess, wait until you hear about the California Data Swamp. This murky world of for-profit companies, nonprofit organizations, charter schools, and advocacy groups is like a giant game of Twister, except instead of colored dots on a mat, there are data points on a spreadsheet.

At the center of this swamp is CORE California Office of Reform of Education (CORE), a nonprofit organization that is managed by a for-profit company, Aspire Public Schools. Aspire is a charter school management organization that operates 46 charter schools in California. So, basically, CORE is like the Siamese twin of Aspire, but instead of sharing organs, they share data.

CORE's mission is to "improve public education in California by providing high-quality schools and supporting innovative reforms." But some critics argue that CORE is more interested in promoting charter schools than in improving public education for all students. In other words, they're like that friend who always talks about their MLM scheme at dinner parties.

But let's be real, who cares about improving public education when you can make a profit? That's where the California Charter Schools Association (CCSA) comes in. Both CORE and Aspire are part of the CCSA, which is a membership organization that advocates for charter schools in the state. It's like a club for people who want to make money off of education.

And speaking of making money, let's not forget about Empower Schools. This for-profit company manages CORE and provides consulting and support services to school districts and states that want to create autonomous and accountable schools. The chairman of Empower Schools is Chris Gabrieli, a venture capitalist and former Massachusetts gubernatorial candidate. Because when you think of education, you think of venture capitalists.

But wait, there's more! Aspire was founded in 1998 by Don Shalvey, a former superintendent of San Carlos School District, and Reed Hastings, the co-founder and CEO of Netflix. Yes, the same Reed Hastings who brought us "Tiger King" and "Stranger Things" is also involved in education. Because why not? It's not like he has enough money already.

Despite all these connections and similarities, CORE and Aspire have some differences and challenges. CORE is not a charter school operator, but a collaborative network of traditional public school districts. As such, they have to balance the interests and needs of its member districts, which may vary in size, demographics, governance, and performance. Meanwhile, Aspire is a charter school operator but not a member of CORE. It's like they're two siblings who don't get along.

Both CORE and Aspire use data and technology to support their instructional and operational practices. For example, CORE uses a data platform called Rally to track student progress and provide feedback to teachers and schools. Aspire uses a data system called Schoolzilla to monitor student achievement and growth. It's like they're playing a game of "Who Has the Better Data System?" but no one really wins.

At the end of the day, whether or not CORE is a good organization is up for debate. Some argue that they're promoting charter schools at the expense of public education, while others believe they're committed to improving public education for all students. But one thing's for sure: the California Data Swamp is a messy place full of incestuous relationships and profit-driven motives.

So let's all grab our snorkels and dive into the swamp together! Because if there's one thing we need in education, it's more confusion and chaos. Who knows? Maybe we'll find some buried treasure along the way. Or maybe we'll just end up covered in mud and regretting our life choices. Either way, it'll be a fun adventure!

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

Yes, CORE California Office of Reform of Education (CORE) is a nonprofit organization that is managed by a for-profit company, Aspire Public Schools. Aspire is a charter school management organization that operates 46 charter schools in California.

CORE's mission is to "improve public education in California by providing high-quality schools and supporting innovative reforms." CORE does this by providing data and research to schools and districts, developing and evaluating educational interventions, and advocating for policies that improve public education.

CORE has been criticized by some for its close ties to Aspire and for its promotion of charter schools. Critics argue that CORE is more interested in promoting charter schools than in improving public education for all students.

CORE's supporters argue that the organization is committed to improving public education for all students. They point to CORE's work with traditional public schools and its advocacy for policies that support public education.

While there is no doubt that CORE has close ties to Aspire and that it promotes charter schools, it is also true that CORE does important work to improve public education for all students. CORE provides data and research to schools and districts, develops and evaluates educational interventions, and advocates for policies that improve public education. This work can benefit all students, regardless of whether they attend a charter school or a traditional public school.

Ultimately, whether or not CORE is a good organization is a matter of opinion. There are valid arguments to be made on both sides of the issue. However, it is important to remember that CORE is not the only organization working to improve public education in California. There are many other organizations that are also doing important work, and it is important to support all of these organizations in their efforts to make public education better for all students.

FROM BING AI

CORE California Office of Reform of Education (CORE) and Aspire Charter School Chain. Here is a summary of what I found from the web:

• - CORE is a nonprofit organization that was established in 2010 by eight California school districts: Los Angeles, Long Beach, Fresno, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Sacramento, Oakland and San Francisco¹. The CORE districts collaborate to raise student achievement through innovation, continuous improvement, and shared accountability¹. They are the only local educational agencies in the nation to secure a federal No Child Left Behind waiver, which allows them to implement their own accountability system that includes multiple academic and non-academic indicators, such as social-emotional learning measures¹².
• - Aspire Charter School Chain is a network of public charter schools that operates in California and Tennessee. Aspire was founded in 1998 by Don Shalvey, a former superintendent of San Carlos School District, and Reed Hastings, the co-founder and CEO of Netflix³. Aspire's mission is to open and operate small, high-quality charter schools in low-income neighborhoods, with the goal of preparing students for college³. Aspire currently serves more than 17,000 students in 40 schools across 10 cities.
• - CORE and Aspire have some connections and similarities, such as:

•     - Both are part of the California Charter Schools Association (CCSA), which is a membership organization that advocates for charter schools in the state.
•     - Both use data and technology to support their instructional and operational practices. For example, CORE uses a data platform called Rally to track student progress and provide feedback to teachers and schools. Aspire uses a data system called Schoolzilla to monitor student achievement and growth.
•     - Both have received funding and recognition from various foundations and organizations, such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Walton Family Foundation, the Broad Foundation, and the U.S. Department of Education .
• - CORE and Aspire also have some differences and challenges, such as:
•     - CORE is not a charter school operator, but a collaborative network of traditional public school districts. As such, CORE has to balance the interests and needs of its member districts, which may vary in size, demographics, governance, and performance.
•     - Aspire is a charter school operator, but not a member of CORE. As such, Aspire has to compete with other charter schools and traditional public schools for students, resources, and authorizations.
•     - Both face criticism and opposition from some stakeholders, such as teachers unions, local school boards, or community groups, who may question their accountability, transparency, or impact on public education .

Bing, 8/8/2023

(1) Home - CORE Districts. https://coredistricts.org/.

(2) Charter Schools - CalEdFacts (CA Dept of Education). https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/ch/cefcharterschools.asp.

(3) Aspire Charter School Not Right for Lincoln Unified - California .... https://www.cta.org/educator/posts/aspire-charter-school-not-right-for-lincoln-unified.

CORE California Office of Reform of Education (CORE) and its relation to charter schools and privatization. Here is a summary of what I found from the web:

• - CORE is a nonprofit organization that was established in 2010 by eight California school districts: Los Angeles, Long Beach, Fresno, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Sacramento, Oakland and San Francisco¹. The CORE districts collaborate to raise student achievement through innovation, continuous improvement, and shared accountability¹. They are the only local educational agencies in the nation to secure a federal No Child Left Behind waiver, which allows them to implement their own accountability system that includes multiple academic and non-academic indicators, such as social-emotional learning measures¹².
• - CORE is managed by a for-profit company called Empower Schools, which is based in Boston and provides consulting and support services to school districts and states that want to create autonomous and accountable schools³ . Empower Schools was founded by Chris Gabrieli, a venture capitalist and former Massachusetts gubernatorial candidate, who is also the chairman of the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education and the co-founder of the National Center on Time and Learning³ .
• - CORE does not explicitly promote charter schools or privatization, but it does advocate for more flexibility and autonomy for public schools, which can be seen as aligned with the charter school movement. Some of the benefits that CORE claims for its approach are:
•     - It allows public schools to tailor their programs and practices to the needs and interests of their students and communities, rather than following a one-size-fits-all model imposed by the state or federal government.
•     - It encourages public schools to learn from each other and share best practices, rather than competing or isolating themselves.
•     - It empowers public schools to use multiple measures of student success, rather than relying solely on standardized test scores.
• - However, some of the criticisms that CORE faces are:
•     - It undermines public education by creating a parallel system of accountability that bypasses the democratic oversight and input of the state and local boards of education.
•     - It creates an uneven playing field for public schools by granting some districts more privileges and resources than others, which can exacerbate inequality and segregation among students.
•     - It opens the door for more privatization and marketization of public education by allowing private entities, such as Empower Schools, to influence and profit from public school decisions and policies.

Bing, 8/8/2023

(1) Home - CORE Districts. https://coredistricts.org/.

(2) Social-Emotional Measures for California Office to Reform Education .... https://cepr.harvard.edu/social-emotional-measures-california-office-reform-education.

(3) About Us - CORE. https://www.coreresponse.org/about-us/.

• - California public education data are collected and reported by the California Department of Education (CDE), which provides access to various data and statistics about California’s students, teachers, and schools¹. Some of the data topics include enrollment, assessment and accountability, English learners, foster youth, free or reduced-price meal, graduates and dropouts, and staff and course data². The CDE also partners with other organizations, such as the Center for Education Policy Research at Harvard University and Ed-Data, to provide additional data resources and analysis for educators, policymakers, and the public³⁴.
• - The CDE has been involved in a legal dispute with two Stanford University education researchers, Thomas Dee and Sean Reardon, who were sought as expert witnesses by the plaintiffs in a lawsuit against the state over its handling of remote learning during the Covid-19 pandemic⁵⁶. The CDE claimed that Dee violated a data partnership agreement by filing a brief for the plaintiffs, and threatened to fine him $50,000 and cut off his research access⁵. The plaintiffs argued that the CDE's action violated the researchers' free speech rights and the students' right to hear expert testimony⁶. The case is pending in Alameda County Superior Court⁶.
• - The California Office to Reform Education (CORE) is a nonprofit organization that was established in 2010 by eight California school districts: Los Angeles, Long Beach, Fresno, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Sacramento, Oakland and San Francisco⁷⁸. The CORE districts collaborate to raise student achievement through innovation, continuous improvement, and shared accountability⁷. They are the only local educational agencies in the nation to secure a federal No Child Left Behind waiver, which allows them to implement their own accountability system that includes multiple academic and non-academic indicators, such as social-emotional learning measures⁷⁸.
• - The CORE districts are a subset of the larger network of CORE-PACE Research Partnership, which is a collaboration between CORE, Policy Analysis for California Education (PACE), and various research institutions⁹. The partnership aims to improve educational outcomes for all students by producing rigorous research and providing evidence-based support for district improvement efforts⁹. Some of the research topics include middle school math outcomes, chronic absenteeism, teacher evaluation systems, and school climate surveys⁹ [^10^].

Bing, 8/8/2023

(1) Data & Statistics (CA Dept of Education) - California Department of .... https://www.cde.ca.gov/ds/.

(2) Accessing Educational Data - Data & Statistics (CA Dept of Education). https://www.cde.ca.gov/ds/ad/.

(3) EdData - State Profile - California Public Schools. https://www.ed-data.org/state/CA.

(4) Public education in California - Ballotpedia. https://ballotpedia.org/Public_education_in_California.

(5) Stanford researchers barred from testifying by data agreement. https://www.insidehighered.com/news/faculty-issues/academic-freedom/2023/08/03/stanford-researchers-barred-testifying-data.

(6) Critics pan state’s justification for threatening Stanford education .... https://edsource.org/2023/critics-pan-states-justification-for-threatening-stanford-education-professor-over-breach-of-data-contract/695208.

(7) Stanford, U of Wash. faculty fought disinformation, got sued. https://www.insidehighered.com/news/faculty-issues/research/2023/06/23/stanford-u-wash-faculty-fought-disinformation-got-sued.

(8) Social-Emotional Measures for California Office to Reform Education .... https://cepr.harvard.edu/social-emotional-measures-california-office-reform-education.

(9) Home - CORE Districts. https://coredistricts.org/.

(10) CORE California Office to Reform Education California Education. https://slidetodoc.com/core-california-office-to-reform-education-california-education/.

(11) CORE - California Office to Reform Education - All Acronyms. https://www.allacronyms.com/CORE/California_Office_to_Reform_Education.

(12) . https://bing.com/search?q=CORE+districts.

(13) About Us - CORE Districts. https://coredistricts.org/about-us/.

(14) PACE Reports & Findings - CORE Districts. https://coredistricts.org/our-improvement-data/research-report-findings/.

PERSONALIZED LEARNING IS THE NEW PUNISHMENT FOR ACTING UP IN CLASS

PERSONALIZED LEARNING IS THE NEW PUNISHMENT FOR ACTING UP IN CLASS

Attention all students! It seems that personalized learning is the new punishment for acting up in class. Yes, you heard it right. If you misbehave, you'll be kicked out of the classroom and into the world of virtual learning. And who's the mastermind behind this diabolical plan? None other than Bill Gates himself, who keeps insisting that this is the future of learning in America. 

Now, I know what you're thinking. "But wait, isn't virtual learning supposed to be a good thing?" Well, that's what they want you to believe. In reality, it's just a way to keep you in school without actually having to deal with you. It's like being sent to your room, but instead of your room, it's a computer screen. And instead of toys and games, you get to stare at boring lectures and worksheets. Fun, right?

But don't worry, there are some benefits to this punishment. For one, you won't be disrupting the other students in class. Instead, you'll be disrupting your parents at home. And if you're lucky, they might even let you use their credit card to buy some snacks while you're "learning." 

Plus, virtual learning is supposed to be a more humane form of punishment than suspension or expulsion. Because let's face it, being expelled from school is so 20th century. Now we have technology to do our dirty work for us. And if you're really lucky, maybe you'll even get a participation trophy for completing your virtual assignments. 

But of course, there are some concerns about this punishment. For example, what if you don't have access to a computer or the internet at home? Well, tough luck, kid. Maybe you should have thought about that before you decided to talk in class or refuse to follow directions. 

And let's not forget about the potential for abuse. What if teachers start using virtual learning as a way to punish students for minor infractions? Like forgetting to bring a pencil to class or sneezing too loudly? Before you know it, we'll all be stuck in front of our screens for the slightest mistake. 

But hey, at least we'll all be in this together. We'll be like a big virtual family, learning and growing together...or at least pretending to learn and grow together. And who knows, maybe one day we'll look back on this punishment and laugh about how ridiculous it was. Or maybe we'll just cry and wonder why we didn't pay more attention in class. Either way, let's hope this punishment doesn't become the new norm. Because if it does, we're all in trouble.

The newest form of school discipline: Kicking kids out of class and into virtual learning • Missouri Independent https://missouriindependent.com/2023/08/07/the-newest-form-of-school-discipline-kicking-kids-out-of-class-and-into-virtual-learning/ 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI 

The practice of kicking students out of class and into virtual learning is becoming increasingly common in schools across the United States. This practice, known as "virtualization," is seen by some as a way to keep disruptive students in school while also providing them with an opportunity to learn. However, others argue that virtualization is a form of punishment that can have negative consequences for students.

There are a number of reasons why schools are turning to virtualization as a form of discipline. One reason is that it can be a way to keep disruptive students in school without disrupting the learning of other students. When a student is removed from the classroom, it can be disruptive to the other students who are still learning. Virtualization allows the disruptive student to continue learning without disrupting the other students.

Another reason why schools are turning to virtualization is that it can be seen as a more humane form of punishment than suspension or expulsion. Suspension and expulsion can have a number of negative consequences for students, including the loss of instructional time, the loss of social connections, and the risk of dropping out of school. Virtualization, on the other hand, allows students to continue learning and to maintain their social connections.

However, there are also a number of concerns about the use of virtualization as a form of discipline. One concern is that it can be used as a way to punish students for minor infractions. For example, a student who talks in class or who refuses to follow directions could be placed in virtual learning. This could have a negative impact on the student's academic performance and could also lead to social isolation.

Another concern is that virtualization can be ineffective as a form of discipline. Students who are placed in virtual learning may not take the punishment seriously. They may also be more likely to engage in disruptive behavior in the virtual classroom. This could lead to further disciplinary action, such as suspension or expulsion.

Overall, the practice of kicking students out of class and into virtual learning is a complex issue with both potential benefits and drawbacks. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of virtualization before using it as a form of discipline.

In addition to the concerns mentioned above, there are also a number of equity concerns about the use of virtualization as a form of discipline. For example, students from low-income families may not have access to the technology and internet connection that they need to participate in virtual learning. This could lead to further educational disparities.

It is important to note that not all schools that use virtualization do so as a form of discipline. Some schools use virtualization as an alternative to traditional detention or suspension. This can be a helpful option for students who need a break from the classroom environment but who still need to learn.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use virtualization as a form of discipline is a complex one. There are a number of factors that schools need to consider, such as the severity of the infraction, the student's needs, and the availability of resources.

FROM BING AI

The newest form of school discipline: Kicking kids out of class and into virtual learning is an article by Carly Graf, published on August 7, 2023, by The Hechinger Report¹. The article explores the practice of forcing students who misbehave or violate school rules to learn online, sometimes without a clear end date or due process. The article argues that this practice can be harmful to students' academic achievement, mental health, and social development. It also suggests some alternatives to suspension, such as counseling, community service, or restorative justice.

The article cites several sources and experts to support its claims, such as:

• - A 2018 study by Matthew Steinberg and Johanna Lacoe that found that suspensions have negative impacts on students' math and reading skills, as well as their peer achievement².
• - Ken Winters, a researcher in adolescent health at the Oregon Research Institute, who said that suspensions are not effective deterrents for many students, especially those who misuse substances¹.
• - Leigh M. Ragsdale-Knoderer, a principal of Jefferson Elementary in Missouri, who reduced disciplinary actions by 86.5% and implemented a program called Pathways that provides students with access to mental health care and counseling¹.
• - Sabrina Bernadel, legal counsel at the National Women’s Law Center, who said that suspending students for non-violent misconduct violates their right to equal access to education¹.

The article also provides some examples of schools and districts that are trying to find better ways to deal with student behavior problems, such as:

• - Toppenish School District in Washington State, which uses in-school suspension as a last resort and offers students academic support and social-emotional learning during their suspension¹.
• - Jennings School District in Missouri, which allows students to choose between online learning or attending an alternative school with smaller classes and more individualized attention¹.
• - Clayton County Public Schools in Georgia, which uses virtual in-school and out-of-school suspensions that require students to complete assignments and check in with teachers regularly³.

The article concludes by calling for more research and evaluation of the effects of virtual learning as a form of discipline, and urges schools to adopt more positive and supportive approaches to help students change their behavior and succeed academically.

Bing, 8/8/2023

(1) The newest form of school discipline: Kicking kids out of class and .... https://hechingerreport.org/the-newest-form-of-school-discipline-kicking-kids-out-of-class-and-into-virtual-learning/.

(2) Missouri schools try a new form of discipline: Kicking kids out of .... https://www.kcur.org/education/2023-08-08/missouri-schools-try-a-new-form-of-discipline-kicking-kids-out-of-class-and-into-virtual-learning.

(3) School discipline enters new realm with online learning. https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/school-discipline-enters-new-realm-with-online-learning/2020/09/14/e19a395e-f393-11ea-999c-67ff7bf6a9d2_story.html.

(4) undefined. https://bing.com/search?q=.

(5) The impact of virtual learning on students’ educational behavior and .... https://globalizationandhealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12992-022-00863-z.

(6) COVID-19 virtual learning and education: Behavior management. https://www.apa.org/topics/covid-19/education-behavior-management.

(7) How Does Virtual Learning Impact Students in Higher Education?. https://bau.edu/blog/virtual-learning-in-higher-education/.

(8) Suspension Alternatives: It's Time To Reconsider Them - WeAreTeachers. https://www.weareteachers.com/suspension-alternatives/.

(9) Alternatives To Suspension | PBIS World. https://www.pbisworld.com/tier-2/alternatives-to-suspension/.

(10) Alternatives to Suspension: Three effective strategies for ... - NASSP. https://www.nassp.org/publication/principal-leadership/volume-16-2015-2016/principal-leadership-october-2015/alternatives-to-suspension-three-effective-strategies-for-changing-student-behavior/.

COVID 19 EXPOSES CALIFORNIA'S DIRTY LITTLE SECRET: THE STATE IS RICH, BUT ITS SCHOOLS ARE POOR

COVID-19 Exposes California's Dirty Little Secret: The State is Rich, But Its Schools are Poor

Well folks, it looks like the poor kids in California have once again gotten the short end of the stick. In the richest state in America, you would think that all students would have access to the resources they need to succeed, especially during a pandemic. But no, apparently that's too much to ask for.

According to a lawsuit filed in Alameda County Superior Court, low-income students were left with no resources for distance learning while schools were closed due to COVID. I mean, come on, California, you couldn't even spare a few laptops and some internet access for these kids? It's not like you're hurting for money.

And let's not forget about the nutritious meals. The lawsuit claims that low-income students didn't have access to enough of them, which led to increased food insecurity. I guess when you're poor in California, you have to choose between learning and eating. Tough choice.

But fear not, parents are demanding that the schools make up for the learning missed by these kids in high poverty districts. And who can blame them? It's not like these kids had a fair shot to begin with. It's time for California to step up and provide all students with a quality education, regardless of their income level.

Of course, this isn't the first time that California's public schools have come under fire for their handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, a group of parents sued the state over its decision to close schools for in-person instruction. I mean, who needs in-person instruction when you can just stare at a screen all day, right?

But let's not forget about the reports and studies that have found that low-income students were disproportionately affected by the pandemic. They were more likely to miss school and fall behind in their academic work. And don't even get me started on the food insecurity.

Look, I know that these are serious issues and that they need to be addressed. But sometimes you just have to laugh so you don't cry. I mean, it's California, the land of milk and honey, and yet poor kids are getting screwed first. It's like something out of a bad joke.

But on a serious note, it's clear that more needs to be done to ensure that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed. The lawsuit is seeking monetary damages for the students and their families, as well as a court order requiring the state to provide better support to low-income students in the future. Let's hope that California steps up and does the right thing.

Lawsuit asks if California schools hurt low-income kids during COVID https://www.sfchronicle.com/california/article/lawsuit-asks-california-schools-hurt-low-income-18204720.php 

California districts and charter schools must show Covid relief funds are being used effectively | EdSource https://edsource.org/2023/california-districts-and-charter-schools-must-show-covid-relief-funds-are-being-used-effectively/694657 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

A lawsuit filed in Alameda County Superior Court on November 30, 2020, alleges that California's public schools failed to provide low-income students with the support they needed to succeed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The lawsuit, which was filed on behalf of low-income students and their families, claims that the state's schools did not provide enough laptops, internet access, or tutoring to help low-income students make up for lost learning time.

• The lawsuit also claims that the state's schools did not do enough to ensure that low-income students had access to nutritious meals. As a result, the lawsuit alleges, low-income students fell behind their peers in academic achievement and experienced increased food insecurity.
• The lawsuit is seeking monetary damages for the students and their families, as well as a court order requiring the state to provide better support to low-income students in the future.
• The lawsuit is the latest in a series of legal challenges to California's public schools over their handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, a group of parents sued the state over its decision to close schools for in-person instruction. The lawsuit is still pending.
• The lawsuit against California's public schools raises important questions about the state's responsibility to provide all students with a quality education, regardless of their income level. The lawsuit also highlights the challenges that low-income students face in accessing educational resources.

It is still too early to say what the outcome of the lawsuit will be. However, the lawsuit is likely to have a significant impact on the way California's public schools are funded and operated in the future.

In addition to the lawsuit, there have been a number of reports and studies that have found that low-income students were disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, a report by the Center on Reinventing Public Education found that low-income students were more likely to miss school during the pandemic, and they were also more likely to fall behind in their academic work.

The pandemic has also had a significant impact on the food security of low-income families. A study by the Food Research & Action Center found that the number of low-income children who were food insecure increased by 20% during the pandemic.

The challenges facing low-income students during the pandemic are not insurmountable. However, it is clear that more needs to be done to ensure that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed.

FROM BING AI 

The lawsuit that asks if California schools hurt low-income kids during COVID. This is a complex and important issue that affects many students and families in the state. Here is some information that I found from reliable sources:

• - The lawsuit is called Cayla J. v. State of California, and it was filed in December 2020 by a coalition of students, parents, and community organizations, with the help of Public Counsel, a pro bono law firm¹.
• - The lawsuit claims that the state has failed to provide equal education to low-income students of color during the pandemic, by not ensuring that they have access to computers, internet, and mental health services¹. It also alleges that the state has not provided adequate guidance or monitoring to districts on how to improve remote instruction and address learning loss¹.
• - The lawsuit seeks an injunction for immediate relief as well as long-term changes to prevent a return to the pre-pandemic system that was already unequal and inadequate¹. Some of the demands include providing devices and connectivity to all students, expanding mental health support, creating a statewide plan for academic recovery, and establishing a data system to track student progress¹.
• - The state has denied the allegations and filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit in March 2021, arguing that it has taken many actions to support schools and students during the pandemic, such as allocating billions of dollars in federal and state funds, issuing guidance and waivers, and launching initiatives to address learning loss and mental health².
• - The first hearing in the case was held on July 2, 2021, in Alameda County Superior Court. Judge Winifred Smith denied the state's motion to dismiss and allowed the lawsuit to proceed to trial³. She also ordered the parties to engage in settlement discussions and report back by August 13, 2021³.
• - The plaintiffs have expressed hope that the lawsuit will lead to a settlement that will benefit all students in California, especially those who have been most impacted by the pandemic. They have also received support from various groups, such as the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California, which filed an amicus brief in favor of the plaintiffs⁴.

Bing, 8/8/2023

(1) 1st Hearing This Week in Lawsuit Charging California Denied Equal .... https://www.the74million.org/article/1st-hearing-this-week-in-lawsuit-charging-california-denied-equal-education-to-low-income-students-of-color-during-pandemic/.

(2) Pandemic closures weakened California schools already struggling .... https://calmatters.org/commentary/2023/07/pandemic-poor-achievement-california-schools/.

(3) Catholic schools sue LA Unified for gutting funding for their low .... https://edsource.org/2021/catholic-schools-sue-la-unified-for-gutting-funding-for-their-low-income-students/664986.

(4) Catholic Schools Sue LA Unified For Gutting Funding For Their Low .... https://laist.com/news/education/catholic-schools-sue-la-unified-for-gutting-funding-for-their-low-income-students.

(5) California moves to silence Stanford researchers who got state .... https://www.paloaltoonline.com/news/2023/07/30/california-moves-to-silence-stanford-researchers-who-got-state-data-to-study-education-issues.

(6) Thurmond sued for 'discriminatory' student discipline in California .... https://www.politico.com/states/california/story/2021/10/06/thurmond-sued-for-discriminatory-student-discipline-in-california-schools-1391691.

(7) California will pay millions to settle suit claiming it violated .... https://bing.com/search?q=California+education+lawsuit+status.

(8) California will pay millions to settle suit claiming it violated .... https://calmatters.org/education/2020/02/california-literacy-rights-lawsuit-settlement-teaching-students-read/.

(9) Lawsuit Takes California to Task for Failing to Educate All Students. https://www.usnews.com/news/education-news/articles/2017-12-07/lawsuit-takes-california-to-task-for-failing-to-educate-all-students.

(10) California becomes first state to sue Trump administration over student .... https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/california-becomes-first-state-sue-trump-administration-over-student-visa-n1233381.

A GREAT DAY TO BE GAY IN CALIFORNIA OR NOT

 

A GREAT DAY TO BE GAY IN CALIFORNIA OR NOT

In a bizarre turn of events, the Chino Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) has found itself in hot water over a policy that could potentially "out" its students. Yes, you read that right. In 2023, we are still dealing with this kind of nonsense.

The policy, which was passed by a narrow vote of 4-3, requires schools to notify parents if their child asks to be identified by a different gender, a name other than their legal name, or takes part in programs that don't align with the gender on their official records. Because apparently, in the year 2023, we still think it's okay to force people into boxes that don't fit them.

But fear not, concerned citizens! The California Attorney General's office has launched a civil rights investigation into the matter. And let's be real, if there's one thing that will strike fear into the hearts of school districts everywhere, it's the California Attorney General's office.

Attorney General Rob Bonta has called out the policy for what it is: a threat to the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ students. And honestly, who could argue with that? It's hard enough being a teenager without having to worry about being outed to your parents and potentially subjected to harassment and violence.

But of course, there are always those who will defend even the most ridiculous policies. The CVUSD board president, Sonja Shaw, has defended the policy as a "parental right." Because apparently, parents have the right to know every single detail about their child's life, even if it puts their child at risk.

The policy has sparked outrage from all corners, with students, parents, teachers, mental health professionals, and advocates all speaking out against it. Even the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tony Thurmond, spoke out against it at a heated board meeting in July. And let's just say things got pretty wild. Thurmond was escorted out by police. Yes, you read that right. The State Superintendent of Public Instruction was escorted out by police. Only in 2023, folks.

But let's not forget the real victims here: the poor school staff who are now tasked with notifying parents if their child wants to use a different name or pronoun. Can you imagine? "Hello Mrs. Johnson, I just wanted to let you know that your son Timmy wants to be called Tina now. Have a great day!"

It's hard to say what the long-term impact of this investigation will be. But one thing is for sure: it's about time we start taking the rights and well-being of LGBTQ+ students seriously. Let's hope this investigation is just the first step in a much-needed change.

In conclusion, let's all take a moment to appreciate just how ridiculous this whole situation is. In 2023, we are still fighting over basic human rights. It's like we're stuck in some kind of time warp where progress is impossible and common sense is a thing of the past. But hey, at least we can still laugh about it. Right? Right?

California investigates district's parental notification policy on students' gender identity https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-news/california-investigates-districts-parental-notification-policy-student-rcna98519 via @nbcnews 

California Attorney General’s office launches civil rights investigation into Chino Valley Unified | EdSource https://edsource.org/updates/california-attorney-generals-office-launches-civil-rights-investigation-into-chino-valley-unified

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

On August 4, 2023, California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced that his office was opening a civil rights investigation into Chino Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) for its policy of requiring district staff to notify parents if their child asks to be identified by a different gender, a name other than their legal name or accesses a bathroom or takes part in programs that don't align with the gender on their official records.

Bonta said that the policy "threatens the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ students vulnerable to harassment and potential abuse from peers and family members unaccepting of their gender identity." He also said that the policy "violates the California Department of Education's (CDE) guidance on transgender students' rights, which explicitly states that schools should not require students to disclose their gender identity to their parents."

The CVUSD policy was passed in July 2023 by a vote of 4-3. The board's president, Kevin Jeffcoat, said that the policy was necessary to protect students from abuse. However, critics of the policy said that it would put transgender students at risk of being outed to their parents and subjected to harassment and violence.

The civil rights investigation is being conducted by the CDE's Office of Civil Rights. The office will review the CVUSD policy and determine whether it violates state or federal law. If the office finds that the policy is discriminatory, it could take a number of actions, including issuing a cease and desist order, requiring the district to make changes to the policy, or filing a lawsuit against the district.

The investigation is the latest in a series of legal challenges to transgender student rights in California. In 2019, the CDE issued guidance on transgender students' rights, which explicitly states that schools should not require students to disclose their gender identity to their parents. The guidance was met with opposition from some parents and conservative groups, but it has been upheld in court.

The CVUSD investigation is also the latest in a series of actions by California Attorney General Rob Bonta to protect the rights of LGBTQ+ Californians. In 2022, Bonta sued the state of Alabama over its ban on transgender students participating in school sports. The lawsuit is still pending.

The civil rights investigation into CVUSD is likely to take several months to complete. In the meantime, the district is continuing to implement its policy. It is unclear what the long-term impact of the investigation will be, but it is a sign that the state of California is committed to protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ students.

FROM BING AI

• - The California Attorney General's office launched a civil rights investigation into the Chino Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) on August 4, 2023, over its policy of forcing schools to disclose students' gender identity to their parents without their consent¹².
• - The policy, which was adopted by the CVUSD board in July 2023, requires schools to notify parents within three days if their child requests to use a name or pronoun different from their official records, or if they access facilities or participate in programs that do not align with their assigned gender at birth¹²³.
• - The Attorney General, Rob Bonta, said that the policy could violate students' civil and privacy rights, as well as expose them to potential harm, harassment, and discrimination from peers and family members who may not accept their gender identity¹²⁴.
• - Bonta also said that the policy could conflict with California's anti-discrimination laws, which protect students from bias and harassment based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression¹⁵.
• - The CVUSD board president, Sonja Shaw, defended the policy as a parental right and accused the Attorney General of overstepping his boundaries and bullying the district¹²⁴.
• - The policy sparked controversy and protests from students, parents, teachers, mental health professionals, and advocates who expressed fear and outrage over its potential impact on transgender and gender nonconforming students¹²³⁴.
• - The policy also drew criticism from state officials, including the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tony Thurmond, who spoke against it at a heated board meeting in July and was escorted out by police¹²⁴.

Bing, 8/8/2023

(1) Attorney General Bonta Launches Civil Rights Investigation into Chino .... https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/attorney-general-bonta-launches-civil-rights-investigation-chino-valley-unified.

(2) California Attorney General’s office launches civil rights .... https://edsource.org/updates/california-attorney-generals-office-launches-civil-rights-investigation-into-chino-valley-unified.

(3) California AG to probe school district over policy requiring staff to .... https://www.foxnews.com/media/california-ag-probe-school-district-policy-requiring-staff-out-trans-students.

(4) undefined. https://bing.com/search?q=.

(5) AG investigates Chino school district's parental notification policy on .... https://abc7.com/chino-rob-bonta-investigation-gender-identity/13603292/.

(6) California school board battles over LGBTQ+ rights intensify after .... https://news.yahoo.com/california-school-board-battles-over-235739342.html.

(7) Proposed transgender restrictions at Chino Valley Unified ... - EdSource. https://edsource.org/2021/proposed-transgender-restrictions-at-chino-valley-unified-fails-after-student-outcry-and-state-warning/663892.

(8) Proposed Transgender Restrictions At Chino Valley Unified Fail After .... https://laist.com/news/education/proposed-transgender-restrictions-at-chino-valley-unified-fail-after-student-outcry-and-state-warning.

(9) Chino Valley school district votes in favor of controversial gender .... https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/chino-valley-school-district-votes-in-favor-of-controversial-gender-identification-policy/.

(10) Frequently Asked Questions - California Department of Education. https://www.cde.ca.gov/re/di/eo/faqs.asp.

(11) Laws & Regulations - Resources (CA Dept of Education). https://www.cde.ca.gov/re/lr/.

(12) LGBTQ Students — Know Your Rights - ACLU of Southern California. https://www.aclusocal.org/en/lgbtq-know-your-rights.

(13) Legal Advisory - Equal Opportunity & Access (CA Dept of Education). https://www.cde.ca.gov/re/di/eo/legaladvisory.asp.

(14) undefined. https://abc7.com/video/embed/?pid=13528526.

TRANS PEOPLE JUST WANT TO TO BE FREE TO BE ME AND PEE

 

TRANS PEOPLE JUST WANT TO BE FREE TO BE ME AND PEE

Ah, the joys of student pronouns and restroom rules. Who knew that such small things could cause such a big uproar? It's almost as if some people have nothing better to do than worry about what other people are doing in the bathroom.

But let's not get too serious here. After all, we're talking about pronouns and restrooms, not world peace or climate change. So let's take a lighthearted approach to this topic and see if we can't inject some humor into the debate.

First of all, let's talk about student pronouns. Now, I don't know about you, but I have a hard enough time remembering people's names, let alone their preferred pronouns. It's like trying to keep track of all the different types of milk at Starbucks. Soy, almond, oat, coconut...I mean, come on! Can't we just stick to good old-fashioned cow's milk?

But I digress. The point is, remembering someone's preferred pronouns can be a challenge, especially if they're using something other than he or she. I mean, have you ever tried using the pronoun "ze"? It's like trying to speak a foreign language without any training.

But hey, if that's what makes someone happy, who am I to judge? As long as they're not asking me to use some made-up pronoun like "flibbertigibbet", I'm happy to oblige.

Now let's move on to restroom rules. This is where things really get interesting. I mean, who knew that using the bathroom could be so complicated? It's like trying to navigate a minefield without a map.

But seriously, why do some people get so worked up about who's using which bathroom? It's not like we're all in there having a party or something. We're just trying to do our business and get out as quickly as possible.

And yet, some people seem to think that allowing transgender people to use the bathroom that corresponds with their gender identity is some sort of threat to society. As if allowing someone to pee in peace is going to bring about the downfall of civilization.

But you know what? Change is hard. It's scary to think that things might be different from the way they've always been. But sometimes change is necessary, especially when it comes to respecting other people's identities and rights.

At the end of the day, transgender people just want to be who they are, not what you think they ought to be. They're not asking for special treatment or privileges, just the same basic rights and respect that everyone else deserves.

So let's all take a deep breath and remember that we're all just human beings trying to navigate this crazy world together. And if that means using a different pronoun or bathroom than we're used to, well, so be it. It's a small price to pay for a more inclusive and accepting society.

In conclusion, let's all try to lighten up a bit when it comes to student pronouns and restroom rules. After all, life is too short to get bogged down in the details. Let's focus on the bigger picture and remember that we're all in this together. And if all else fails, just stick to good old-fashioned cow's milk. It never goes out of style.

Orange County Public Schools releases guidance on student pronouns, restroom rules – WFTV https://www.wftv.com/news/local/orange-county-public-schools-releases-guidance-student-pronouns-bathroom-rules/VY6EJVK3GRBV5OEATNOZZNGODA/

Students banned from nicknames under Orange County trans rules https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/08/08/orange-county-florida-trans-schools/ 

Florida district bars trans teachers from using preferred pronouns and bathrooms to comply with state law https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/florida-district-bars-trans-teachers-using-preferred-pronouns-bathroom-rcna98734 

Florida Students Need Parents' Permission to Change Name in Trans Crackdown https://www.newsweek.com/florida-students-need-parent-permission-change-name-1818194 

California investigates district's parental notification policy on students' gender identity https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-news/california-investigates-districts-parental-notification-policy-student-rcna98519 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

The use of student pronouns and restroom rules are two hotly debated topics in education today. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to these questions, as the best approach will vary depending on the specific circumstances of each school district.

**Student pronouns**

• The use of student pronouns is a matter of respecting the gender identity of transgender and gender-nonconforming students. These students may not identify with the pronouns that are typically associated with their sex assigned at birth. For example, a transgender student who was assigned female at birth may use he/him pronouns.
• The U.S. Department of Education has issued guidance on the use of student pronouns, stating that schools must treat transgender students according to their gender identity. This includes using the pronouns that the student prefers and allowing the student to use the restroom that corresponds to their gender identity.
• However, there is some debate about how to implement these guidelines. Some schools have adopted policies that require all students to use the pronouns that are listed on their birth certificates. These policies have been challenged in court, and some courts have ruled that they are discriminatory.
• The best approach to the use of student pronouns is to have a policy that is inclusive and respectful of all students. This policy should allow students to choose their own pronouns and use the restroom that corresponds to their gender identity. The policy should also be clear and easy to understand for all students, staff, and parents.

**Restroom rules**

• The use of restroom facilities is another issue that is often debated in education. Some schools have policies that require students to use the restroom that corresponds to their sex assigned at birth. These policies have been challenged in court, and some courts have ruled that they are discriminatory.
• The best approach to restroom rules is to have a policy that is inclusive and respectful of all students. This policy should allow students to use the restroom that corresponds to their gender identity. The policy should also be clear and easy to understand for all students, staff, and parents.
• In addition to the federal guidance, there are also a number of state and local laws that address the use of student pronouns and restroom rules. It is important to be aware of these laws when developing policies for your school district.
• Ultimately, the best way to address these issues is to have a conversation with your community. Talk to students, staff, parents, and other stakeholders about their thoughts and concerns. This will help you to develop a policy that is supported by the majority of people.

FROM BING AI

The topic of student pronouns and restroom rules. This is a complex and sensitive issue that affects many transgender and gender nonconforming students in schools across the country. I will try to provide you with some information and resources that can help you understand the different perspectives and challenges involved.

First, let me explain what transgender and gender nonconforming mean. Transgender is a term that describes people whose gender identity (their internal sense of being male, female, or neither) does not match the sex they were assigned at birth. Gender nonconforming is a term that describes people who do not conform to the social expectations or stereotypes of their assigned sex, such as their appearance, behavior, or interests. Some transgender and gender nonconforming people may use different names and pronouns (such as he, she, they, or ze) that reflect their gender identity, and some may also seek medical or social transition to align their body and expression with their identity.

One of the challenges that transgender and gender nonconforming students face in school is accessing facilities and programs that are consistent with their gender identity. For example, some students may want to use the restroom or locker room that matches their gender identity, or participate in sports teams or activities that are segregated by sex. However, some schools may not allow them to do so, or may require them to provide proof of their identity, such as a medical diagnosis, a legal name change, or parental consent. This can create barriers and difficulties for these students, who may feel excluded, uncomfortable, or unsafe in school.

Another challenge is dealing with discrimination and harassment from other students, staff, or parents who may not respect or accept their gender identity or expression. Some transgender and gender nonconforming students may face bullying, teasing, name-calling, physical violence, or other forms of abuse because of who they are. This can have negative effects on their mental health, academic performance, and social well-being.

To address these challenges, some states and districts have adopted laws and policies that protect the rights of transgender and gender nonconforming students in school. For example, California passed a law in 2013 that allows students to participate in sex-segregated programs and activities and use facilities consistent with their gender identity, regardless of the gender listed on their records¹. The law also prohibits discrimination and harassment based on gender identity and expression². The California Department of Education has issued guidance on how to implement this law in schools³.

However, not all states and districts have such laws and policies, and some have even passed laws that restrict the rights of transgender and gender nonconforming students. For example, Florida passed two laws in 2021 that ban transgender girls from playing on girls' sports teams⁴ and require schools to notify parents if their child requests to use a different name or pronoun⁵. The Orange County Public Schools district in Florida issued guidance on how to comply with these laws, which has been criticized by some advocates as discriminatory⁶.

The federal government has also taken a stance on this issue. In 2021, President Biden issued an executive order that clarifies that Title IX, a federal law that prohibits sex discrimination in education, also covers discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation⁷. This means that schools that receive federal funding have to respect the rights of transgender and gender nonconforming students or risk losing their funding. The U.S. Department of Education has also announced that it will investigate complaints of discrimination against these students⁸.

As you can see, this is a controversial and evolving topic that has different legal and social implications in different states and districts. I hope this information has given you some insight into the challenges and opportunities that transgender and gender nonconforming students face in school. If you want to learn more about this topic, you can visit the websites of organizations such as GLSEN⁹, ACLU[^10^], or Trans Student Educational Resources¹¹, which provide resources and support for these students and their allies. 

Bing, 8/8/2023

(1) Orange County Public Schools releases guidance on student pronouns, restroom rules. https://news.yahoo.com/orange-county-public-schools-releases-095324844.html.

(2) Florida district bars trans teachers from using preferred pronouns and bathrooms to comply with state law. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/florida-district-bars-trans-teachers-from-using-preferred-pronouns-and-bathrooms-to-comply-with-state-law/ar-AA1eXwHY.

(3) LGBTQ-Specific Protections Removed From Carroll ISD Rules. https://www.dallasobserver.com/news/lgbtq-specific-protections-removed-from-carroll-isd-rules-17112679.

(4) Orange County Public Schools releases guidance on student pronouns .... https://www.wdbo.com/news/local/orange-county-public-schools-releases-guidance-student-pronouns-restroom-rules/VY6EJVK3GRBV5OEATNOZZNGODA/.

(5) A Guide for Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students. https://www.glsen.org/sites/default/files/2020-06/Know%20Your%20Rights_0.pdf.

(6) New York State Schools Update Bathroom Gender Rules, Pronouns. https://hudsonvalleypost.com/new-york-state-schools-update-bathroom-gender-rules-pronouns/.

(7) undefined. https://bing.com/search?q=.

(8) Transgender Student Rights at School - ACLU of Southern California. https://www.aclusocal.org/en/know-your-rights/transgender-student-rights-school.

(9) Legal Update Memo No. 13-2022 - School & College Legal Services of .... https://sclscal.org/legal-update-memo-no-13-2022-addressing-the-needs-of-transgender-youth-k-12/.

(10) LGBTQ Students — Know Your Rights - ACLU of Southern California. https://www.aclusocal.org/en/lgbtq-know-your-rights.

(11) California law allows transgender students to pick bathrooms, sports .... https://www.cbsnews.com/news/california-law-allows-transgender-students-to-pick-bathrooms-sports-teams-they-identify-with/.

(12) CA will investigate Chino schools over transgender policy | The .... https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article277978328.html.

OKLA SSPI RYAN WALTERS DECLARES WAR ON TULSA PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND SUP GIST #OklaEd

 

OKLA SSPI RYAN WALTERS DECLARES WAR ON TULSA PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND SUP GIST 

Ryan Walters, the Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Instruction, is at it again. He's proven time and time again that he's the most dangerous man in Oklahoma, and not just because he's a walking, talking bombastic approach to destroying public education in the state. No, it's because he's also a narcissistic culture warrior spinning lies faster than a tornado in Tornado Alley.

His latest target? Tulsa Public Schools and its leader, Deborah Gist. Walters has declared war on TPS as the opening gambit to his bid to become Governor of Oklahoma. And if there's one thing we know about Walters, it's that he doesn't mess around. He's got a list of guidelines and benchmarks for TPS that would make even the most seasoned educator's head spin.

Re-orienting district finances to serve students? Check. Increasing reading proficiency scores to the state average? Check. Getting TPS schools off the F-List? Check. Improving financial transparency? Check. Holding TPS accountable for its actions? Check, check, and check.

But that's not all. Walters is also calling for new district leadership, saying that the current leadership has "failed the students, the parents, and the teachers." He's even going so far as to say that a new superintendent with a "proven track record of success" is needed to turn TPS around.

The State Board of Education is set to vote on TPS's accreditation status on August 15th, and if TPS loses its accreditation, it'll lose state funding and students will be able to transfer to other school districts. So, needless to say, this is a critical juncture for TPS.

But here's the thing: TPS is facing a lot of challenges right now. Financial problems? Check. Low test scores? Check. High turnover rate among teachers? Check. And in recent months, Walters has criticized TPS for its handling of a number of issues, including a self-reported embezzlement scandal and a school board member who led a prayer at a graduation ceremony.

TPS Superintendent Deborah Gist has defended her record, saying that she's made significant progress in improving the district. She's also said that she's committed to working with Walters to address the challenges facing TPS.

So, what does all of this mean? Well, it means that Walters is certainly making a name for himself as a potential gubernatorial candidate in 2026. And it also means that he's not afraid to take on anyone or anything that he perceives as a threat to his agenda.

But let's not forget about Walters' views on education. He's been a vocal critic of the Biden administration's education policies, accusing the administration of trying to indoctrinate students with critical race theory and other leftist ideologies. He's even called for the repeal of the Every Student Succeeds Act, the federal law that governs education policy in the United States.

And here's where things get really interesting: Walters' views on education are in line with those of the Republican Party. The party has been increasingly critical of public education in recent years, arguing that it's failing students and taxpayers. So, it's safe to say that Walters' attacks on TPS and the Biden administration's education policies are likely to appeal to Republican voters.

If Walters does decide to run for governor in 2026, he'll likely face a challenge from incumbent Kevin Stitt. Stitt is a popular governor who has a strong base of support in rural Oklahoma. But Walters' attacks on TPS and his conservative views on education could give him a chance to win the Republican nomination.

In the end, only time will tell what Walters' ultimate goal is. But one thing is for sure: he's not backing down anytime soon. And if you're in his crosshairs, you better watch out.

Tulsa Public Schools Superintendent Deborah Gist Responds To Walters 'Improvement Plan' https://www.newson6.com/story/64d21fec33a09209cc76524e/tulsa-public-schools-superintendent-deborah-gist-responds-to-walters-improvement-plan 

Walters Announces Guidelines For Tulsa Public School District; Calls For New Leadership https://www.newson6.com/story/64d1731813ee03072ad7e8ab/walters-announces-guidelines-for-tulsa-public-schools-this-year-calls-for-new-leadership  

Sources: Ryan Walters mulls bid for governor amid attacks on TPS https://theblackwallsttimes.com/2023/08/07/sources-ryan-walters-mulls-bid-for-governor-amid-attacks-on-tps/ 

Walters breaks down focus of Tulsa Public Schools' accreditation decision | KTUL https://ktul.com/news/local/walters-announces-tulsa-public-schools-accreditation-decision 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

On August 1, 2023, Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters laid down a list of guidelines and benchmarks for the Tulsa Public School District (TPS) this upcoming year and called for new district leadership while a vote on the district's accreditation status looms.

Walters' list of guidelines includes:

• * Re-orienting district finances to serve students
• * Increasing reading proficiency scores to the state average
• * Getting TPS schools off the F-List
• * Improving financial transparency
• * Holding TPS accountable for its actions

Walters also called for new district leadership, saying that the current leadership has "failed the students, the parents, and the teachers." He said that a new superintendent with a "proven track record of success" is needed to turn TPS around.

The State Board of Education is scheduled to vote on TPS's accreditation status on August 15, 2023. If TPS is not accredited, it will lose state funding and students will be able to transfer to other school districts.

Walters' announcement comes at a time when TPS is facing a number of challenges. The district has been plagued by financial problems, low test scores, and a high turnover rate among teachers. In recent months, Walters has also criticized TPS for its handling of a number of issues, including a self-reported embezzlement scandal and a school board member who led a prayer at a graduation ceremony.

TPS Superintendent Deborah Gist has defended her record, saying that she has made significant progress in improving the district. She has also said that she is committed to working with Walters to address the challenges facing TPS.

It remains to be seen whether Walters' guidelines and call for new leadership will be enough to turn TPS around. However, it is clear that the district is facing a critical juncture. If TPS is not able to make significant improvements in the coming year, it could lose its accreditation and face even more challenges.

In addition to the guidelines and call for new leadership, Walters also announced that he is creating a new task force to review TPS's finances and operations. The task force will be made up of parents, teachers, business leaders, and other community members. Walters said that the task force will provide him with recommendations on how to improve TPS.

The task force is expected to begin its work in August 2023. Its recommendations will be made public in October 2023.

Ryan Walters, the Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Instruction, is reportedly mulling a bid for governor in 2026. Walters has been a vocal critic of the Tulsa Public School District (TPS), and his attacks on the district have raised speculation that he may be positioning himself for a run for governor.

In recent months, Walters has accused TPS of financial mismanagement, low test scores, and a high turnover rate among teachers. He has also criticized the district for its handling of a number of issues, including a self-reported embezzlement scandal and a school board member who led a prayer at a graduation ceremony.

Walters' attacks on TPS have been met with mixed reactions. Some people have praised him for speaking out about the district's problems, while others have accused him of politicizing education.

If Walters does decide to run for governor, he will likely face a challenge from incumbent Kevin Stitt. Stitt is a popular governor who has a strong base of support in rural Oklahoma. Walters will need to convince voters in urban areas that he is the best candidate to lead the state.

Walters' attacks on TPS have also raised concerns about his commitment to public education. Some people have accused him of trying to privatize the public school system. Walters has denied these accusations, but his rhetoric has led some to question his motives.

It remains to be seen whether Walters will run for governor in 2026. However, his attacks on TPS have certainly raised his profile and made him a potential contender for the state's highest office.

In addition to his attacks on TPS, Walters has also been a vocal critic of the Biden administration's education policies. He has accused the administration of trying to indoctrinate students with critical race theory and other leftist ideologies. Walters has also called for the repeal of the Every Student Succeeds Act, the federal law that governs education policy in the United States.

Walters' views on education are in line with those of the Republican Party. The party has been increasingly critical of public education in recent years, arguing that it is failing students and taxpayers. Walters' attacks on TPS and the Biden administration's education policies are likely to appeal to Republican voters.

If Walters does decide to run for governor, he will likely face a challenge from Stitt. However, Walters' attacks on TPS and his conservative views on education could give him a chance to win the Republican nomination.

FROM BING AI

Ryan Walters' possible bid for governor amid his attacks on TPS. 

According to a news report by The Black Wall Street Times¹, Walters is taking steps to lay potential groundwork for a future gubernatorial campaign, according to multiple sources. The sources also said that Representative Sherrie Conley, who faced public backlash for her controversial statement regarding the Tulsa Race Massacre, is eyeing a bid for State Superintendent.

The news report also said that Walters' political ambitions are behind his targeted and politicized attack on Tulsa Public Schools, which he threatened to dismantle or take over at the August 24th state Board of Education meeting. Walters claimed that TPS had mismanaged its finances, had low reading proficiency scores, and had 25 of the 36 schools on the state's F-List. He also called for new district leadership, saying he had lost confidence in Superintendent Deborah Gist and the TPS Board of Education.

However, Gist and the TPS Board of Education have disputed Walters' claims and criticized his actions, saying they were inaccurate, misleading, and harmful to students, families, and staff. They said that TPS had been transparent and accountable about its spending and financial audits, that it had improved its reading performance and was above the state average for some grades and subgroups, and that it had only 11 schools on the F-List and had made significant progress in improving their academic performance. They also said that they had the trust and support of the TPS community, and that Walters' threats of removing accreditation were politically motivated and violated due process.

Walters has also faced international condemnation for denying that race played a main role in the Tulsa Race Massacre. According to a news report by Claremore Daily Progress², Walters said at a Thursday meeting with Cleveland County Republicans that he would never tell a kid that because of their skin color, they are less of a person or inherently racist. He also said that he rejected the idea that race defines a person, and that he believed in judging the actions of individuals based on their character. However, Walters later told Fox 25³ that his comments were misconstrued, and that he did believe the 1921 destruction of the Greenwood District was motivated by racism.

 Bing, 8/8/2023

(1) Sources: Ryan Walters mulls bid for governor amid attacks on TPS. https://theblackwallsttimes.com/2023/08/07/sources-ryan-walters-mulls-bid-for-governor-amid-attacks-on-tps/.

(2) Ryan Walters hits back at critics, says his comments about Tulsa Race .... https://news.yahoo.com/ryan-walters-hits-back-critics-035500453.html.

(3) Ryan Walters says he was misquoted on Tulsa Race Massacre comment. https://www.koco.com/article/oklahoma-ryan-walters-misquoted-tulsa-race-massacre-question/44478539.

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The Tulsa Public Schools Superintendent Deborah Gist's response to Walters' Improvement Plan. A summary of her main points and arguments.

According to a news report by News On 6¹, Gist addressed the media on Monday, August 7, 2023, after Walters announced his guidelines and benchmarks for the district this upcoming year. She also called for new district leadership and threatened to vote on the district's accreditation status in August.

Gist said that she met with Walters in Oklahoma City last week, where they talked for less than 30 minutes about his concerns. She said that she was surprised and disappointed by his actions and statements, which she claimed were inaccurate, misleading, and politically motivated.

Some of the key points that Gist made in her response were:

• - She denied that TPS had mismanaged its finances, as Walters alleged. She said that TPS had been transparent and accountable about its spending and financial audits, which were available to the public. She also said that TPS had reduced its administrative costs and redirected more funds to classrooms and teachers.
• - She challenged Walters' claim that TPS had low reading proficiency scores, which he said were 8% below the state average. She said that TPS had improved its reading performance by 10% in the last three years, and that it was above the state average for some grades and subgroups. She also said that TPS had implemented effective literacy programs and interventions to help students improve their reading skills.
• - She disputed Walters' claim that TPS had 25 of the 36 schools on the state's F-List, which he said were among the worst in the state. She said that TPS had only 11 schools on the F-List, and that it had made significant progress in improving the academic performance of its schools. She also said that TPS had provided comprehensive supports and resources to help these schools improve.
• - She defended her leadership and the TPS Board of Education, which Walters called for replacing. She said that she had the trust and support of the TPS community, including students, families, staff, and partners. She also said that she had a strong track record of leading TPS through challenging times and achieving positive results.
• - She criticized Walters' threats of removing accreditation from TPS, which he said he would vote on in August. She said that this was a harmful and irresponsible move that would jeopardize the future of thousands of students. She also said that this was a violation of due process and a misuse of his authority.
• Gist concluded her response by saying that her focus was on students and teachers ahead of the school year, which begins on August 17th. She said that she was proud of the work that TPS had done and was confident in its ability to continue serving its students.

Bing, 8/8/2023

(1) Tulsa Public Schools Superintendent Deborah Gist Responds To Walters 'Improvement Plan'. https://www.newson6.com/story/64d21fec33a09209cc76524e/tulsa-public-schools-superintendent-deborah-gist-responds-to-walters-improvement-plan.

(2) Tulsa Public Schools Superintendent Deborah Gist Responds To Walters .... https://www.news9.com/story/64d21fec33a09209cc76524e/tulsa-public-schools-superintendent-deborah-gist-responds-to-walters-improvement-plan.

(3) 'Disappointed': Gist responds to Walters' mismanagement accusations .... https://www.publicradiotulsa.org/local-regional/2023-07-26/disappointed-gist-responds-to-walters-mismanagement-accusations-rhetoric.

(4) Walters announces Tulsa Public Schools' accreditation decision - MSN. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/walters-breaks-down-focus-of-tulsa-public-schools-accreditation-decision/ar-AA1eVu38.

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