SCHOOLS KEEP LOSING THEIR SHEEP: A TALE OF CHRONIC ABSENTEEISM

 

SCHOOLS KEEP LOSING THEIR SHEEP: A TALE OF CHRONIC ABSENTEEISM

We all remember the nursery rhyme about Little Bo Peep and her lost sheep. But did you know that schools these days are losing their own sheep too? Yes, I'm talking about chronic absenteeism, the bane of every teacher's existence. It's like trying to herd cats, only worse.

You see, chronic absenteeism is when a student misses at least 10 percent of school days for any reason, including excused and unexcused absences. That's like missing two days every month, which adds up to 18 to 20 days in a school year. And let's face it, if you're not in school, you're not learning. It's like trying to win a race without showing up to the starting line.

But why are students not showing up to school? Is it because they're sick? Or because they're being bullied? Or because they're just too lazy to get out of bed? Well, according to a recent study, students who come from low-income families, students of color, students with disabilities, and students involved in the juvenile justice system are more likely to be chronically absent. And let's not forget about the social determinants of health, like unsafe school conditions, housing instability, and substance abuse, that can also affect attendance.

Now, you might be thinking, "Well, why can't the schools just fix all these problems?" Ah, if only it were that easy. You see, chronic absenteeism is a complex issue with no easy solutions. It's like trying to untangle a ball of yarn that's been chewed up by a cat. You have to take it one strand at a time.

But fear not, dear reader, for there is hope. The federal initiative Every Student, Every Day has produced a toolkit that outlines how schools can do more to prevent chronic absenteeism. And let me tell you, some of these ideas are pure genius.

For example, one program called AttenDANCE rewards middle school students for being present at least 95 percent of their second quarter of school by letting them attend a dance. Yes, you heard that right. A dance. Because apparently, nothing motivates kids more than the chance to bust a move with their friends.

Another program called Count Me In! rewards entire districts for good attendance with prizes like a new car for one lucky high schooler. I mean, who needs good grades when you can have a shiny new ride, am I right?

But in all seriousness, chronic absenteeism is a serious issue that affects not only academic achievement but also social-emotional development and future outcomes. We need to take it seriously and address the underlying causes with evidence-based interventions and best practices.

So, if you're a teacher or a parent or just someone who cares about education, let's work together to keep those sheep in the fold. Because if we don't, we might end up with a whole lot of Little Bo Peeps running around wondering where their education went.

Millions of kids are missing weeks of school as attendance tanks across the US | EdSource https://edsource.org/2023/millions-of-kids-are-missing-weeks-of-school-as-attendance-tanks-across-the-us/695460 

Chronic absenteeism | American Federation of Teachers https://www.aft.org/childrens-health-safety-and-well-being/childrens-access-care/chronic-absenteeism#:~:text=Additionally%2C%20major%20social%20determinants%20of,delinquency%20affect%20a%20student's%20attendance

More than 300,000 Colorado students chronically absent last year https://www.denverpost.com/2023/08/11/colorado-chronically-absent-students-enrollment-pandemic/ 

Sacramento schools see huge increase in chronic absences | The Sacramento Bee https://www.sacbee.com/news/local/education/article278140457.html 

 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

School attendance and chronic absenteeism:

• What is chronic absenteeism?

Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10% or more of school days for any reason. This can include excused absences (such as illness or family emergencies) and unexcused absences (such as truancy). Students who are chronically absent are at a much higher risk of academic failure, dropping out of school, and engaging in risky behaviors.

• What are the causes of chronic absenteeism?

There are many factors that can contribute to chronic absenteeism, including:

• * Poverty: Students living in poverty are more likely to be chronically absent due to a lack of reliable transportation, food insecurity, and unstable housing.
• * Homelessness: Homeless students are more likely to be chronically absent due to unstable housing and a lack of access to basic necessities.
• * Health problems: Students with chronic health problems are more likely to be absent from school.
• * Learning disabilities: Students with learning disabilities may struggle to keep up in school and may be more likely to miss school due to frustration or anxiety.
• * Mental health problems: Students with mental health problems may also be more likely to miss school due to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues.
• * Truancy: Truancy is the intentional act of skipping school. Students who truant may do so for a variety of reasons, such as boredom, peer pressure, or family problems.

How does chronic absenteeism affect academic performance?

Chronic absenteeism has a significant negative impact on academic performance. Students who are chronically absent are more likely to score lower on standardized tests, have lower grades, and be less likely to graduate from high school. They are also more likely to drop out of school and engage in risky behaviors, such as substance abuse and crime.

What can be done to address chronic absenteeism?

There are a number of things that can be done to address chronic absenteeism, including:

• * Early intervention: Schools should identify students who are at risk of chronic absenteeism early on and provide them with support services.
• * Family engagement: Schools should work with families to understand the reasons why their children are absent and develop strategies to improve attendance.
• * Community partnerships: Schools should partner with community organizations to provide students with access to resources that can help them overcome barriers to attendance, such as transportation, food, and health care.
• * School climate: Schools should create a positive school climate that makes students feel safe and welcome. This can help to reduce truancy and increase attendance.

Chronic absenteeism is a serious problem that has a significant impact on students' academic achievement and life outcomes. By taking steps to address chronic absenteeism, we can help to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed in school and beyond.

In addition to the causes and effects of chronic absenteeism that I mentioned above, here are some other things to keep in mind:

• Chronic absenteeism is a complex issue with no easy solutions. It is important to address the underlying causes of chronic absenteeism in order to make a lasting impact.
• Schools and communities need to work together to address chronic absenteeism. No single entity can solve this problem on its own.
• Early intervention is key to preventing chronic absenteeism. Schools need to identify students who are at risk of chronic absenteeism early on and provide them with support services.
• Families play a critical role in preventing chronic absenteeism. Schools need to work with families to understand the reasons why their children are absent and develop strategies to improve attendance.
• Community partnerships are essential to addressing chronic absenteeism. Schools need to partner with community organizations to provide students with access to resources that can help them overcome barriers to attendance, such as transportation, food, and health care.

FROM BING AI

School attendance and chronic absenteeism are important topics in education research and policy. School attendance refers to the number of days a student attends school in a given period, usually a school year. Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10% or more of school days for any reason, including excused and unexcused absences, suspensions, and health problems¹. Chronic absenteeism can have negative effects on students' academic achievement, social-emotional development, and future outcomes².

There are many factors that can influence school attendance and chronic absenteeism, such as individual, family, school, community, and systemic issues. Some of the common causes of absenteeism include:

• - Illness or injury
• - Mental health problems
• - Family responsibilities or emergencies
• - Transportation difficulties
• - Safety concerns
• - Bullying or harassment
• - Disengagement or boredom
• - Lack of support or resources³

To address school attendance and chronic absenteeism, researchers and practitioners have proposed and implemented various interventions and best practices at different levels. Some of the general strategies include:

• - Monitoring and analyzing attendance data to identify patterns and trends
• - Communicating with students and families about the importance and expectations of attendance
• - Providing positive incentives and recognition for good attendance
• - Offering personalized support and guidance for students at risk of chronic absenteeism
• - Collaborating with community partners and agencies to address barriers and provide services⁴

Some examples of specific interventions and best practices are:

• - Early warning systems that use data to identify and intervene with students who show signs of chronic absenteeism⁵
• - Mentoring programs that pair students with caring adults who provide academic, social, and emotional support⁶
• - Youth engagement activities that involve students in meaningful and relevant learning opportunities that foster their interests, skills, and goals⁷
• - Addressing asthma management and prevention as a common health issue that affects school attendance⁸
• - Providing targeted transportation solutions for students who face challenges in accessing school due to distance, cost, or safety⁹
• - Truancy courts that use legal authority and incentives to hold students and families accountable for school attendance[^10^]
• - Interagency case management that coordinates services and resources across multiple sectors to address complex needs of students and families¹¹
• - Housing interventions that stabilize housing situations and reduce homelessness as a major risk factor for chronic absenteeism¹²

These are some of the ways that school attendance and chronic absenteeism can be understood and improved. 

Bing, 8/11/2023

• (1) Chronic absenteeism in Mass. has doubled since before the pandemic. https://www.boston.com/news/schools/2023/08/11/chronic-absenteeism-in-mass-has-doubled-since-before-the-pandemic/.
• (2) Millions of kids are missing weeks of school as attendance tanks across the US. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/millions-of-kids-are-missing-weeks-of-school-as-attendance-tanks-across-the-us/ar-AA1f97oq.
• (3) Richland School District 2 tries to combat 'chronic absenteeism'. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/richland-school-district-2-tries-to-combat-chronic-absenteeism/ar-AA1f6iWq.
• (4) School Attendance, Truancy & Chronic Absenteeism: What Parents Need to .... https://healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/gradeschool/school/Pages/School-Attendance-Truancy-Chronic-Absenteeism.aspx.
• (5) Millions of kids are missing weeks of school as attendance tanks across .... https://apnews.com/article/back-to-school-attendance-pandemic-chronic-absenteeism-90c05e3013b72802439565250d1adc33.
• (6) School Absenteeism in Children and Adolescents | AAFP. https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2018/1215/p738.html.
• (7) Chronic Absenteeism | Effects of Being Chronically Absent - Understood. https://www.understood.org/en/articles/chronic-absenteeism-what-you-need-to-know.
• (8) Why Is School Attendance Important? | American University. https://soeonline.american.edu/blog/importance-of-school-attendance/.
• (9) Students’ attendance affects their progress in school, and poor .... https://www.attendanceworks.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Chronic-Absenteeism-and-School-Health-Brief-1.pdf.
• (10) The Link Between School Attendance and Good Health. https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/143/2/e20183648/37326/The-Link-Between-School-Attendance-and-Good-Health.
• (11) Chronic absenteeism: An old problem in search of new answers. https://www.brookings.edu/articles/chronic-absenteeism-an-old-problem-in-search-of-new-answers/.
• (12) 3 Tiers of Intervention - Attendance Works. https://www.attendanceworks.org/chronic-absence/addressing-chronic-absence/3-tiers-of-intervention/.
• (13) Strategies For School Sites - Attendance Works. https://www.attendanceworks.org/chronic-absence/addressing-chronic-absence/strategies-for-school-sites/.
• (14) 6 Strategies to Combat Chronic Absenteeism and Improve School Attendance. https://www.parentsquare.com/blog/chronic-absenteeism/.
• (15) Here's How You Can Prevent Chronic Absenteeism and Promote School .... https://www.waterford.org/education/school-attendance/.
• (16) PUBLIC SCHOOLS Chronic Absenteeism - ed. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED595241.pdf.
• (17) Frontiers | School attendance and school absenteeism: A primer for the .... https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2022.1044608/full.
• (18) ATTENDANCE PLAYBOOK - FutureEd. https://www.future-ed.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Attendance-Playbook.pdf.
• (19) undefined. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2022.1044608.

HELP WANTED: IF YOU BREATH YOU CAN TEACH!

HELP WANTED: IF YOU BREATH YOU CAN TEACH!

Attention all job seekers! Are you tired of the same old boring career paths? Do you want to try something new and exciting? Well, have we got the job for you! Introducing the wonderful world of teaching!

Yes, that's right folks, teaching! The profession that has been bashed and belittled by billionaires and privatizers for the past 30 years. But don't let that discourage you, because if you can breathe, you can teach!

According to a new report from the Learning Policy Institute, school districts across the United States are in desperate need of teachers. And when we say desperate, we mean they're hiring anyone with a pulse. The report found that the share of teachers with three or fewer years of experience has increased from 18% to 24% in the past decade. And if that's not enough to make you want to jump on board, the share of teachers with emergency permits has also increased from 4% to 7%. So basically, if you have a heartbeat and can spell your name correctly, you're hired!

But why is there such a shortage of teachers, you ask? Well, it's simple really. Low pay, high stress levels, and a lack of support for teachers are just a few of the contributing factors. And let's not forget about the pandemic, which has caused many teachers to leave the profession due to burnout or health concerns. But hey, who needs experienced and qualified teachers when you can have someone who just graduated high school teaching your kid algebra?

Now, we know what you're thinking. "But won't these inexperienced teachers be less effective in the classroom?" Well, yes. But who needs effectiveness when you can have someone who's just happy to have a job? And sure, these teachers may leave the profession within a few years, but that just means more job openings for the next round of inexperienced teachers!

But fear not, because there are solutions to this teacher shortage. We could increase teacher pay, reduce teacher workload, provide more support for teachers, and make teaching a more attractive career. Or we could just keep hiring anyone who walks through the door. It's really up to you.

And if you're still not convinced that teaching is the career for you, just think about all the wonderful benefits. You get to spend your days with kids who may or may not listen to you, deal with parents who may or may not blame you for their child's lack of success, and work for a system that may or may not value your hard work and dedication. What's not to love?

So come on down and join the wonderful world of teaching! Because if you can breathe, you can teach. And who needs experience anyway?

The State of the Teacher Workforce | Learning Policy Institute https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/product/state-of-teacher-workforce-interactive 

Pennsylvania school districts are hiring teachers with limited experience amid shortage, new report finds | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette https://www.post-gazette.com/news/education/2023/08/09/pennsylvania-teacher-shortage-limited-experience-new-report/stories/202308080120 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

A new report from the Learning Policy Institute found that school districts across the United States are increasingly hiring teachers with limited experience amid a nationwide teacher shortage. The report found that the share of teachers with three or fewer years of experience increased from 18% in the 2011-12 school year to 24% in the 2020-21 school year. The report also found that the share of teachers with emergency permits, which are temporary teaching licenses, increased from 4% to 7% during the same period.

The teacher shortage is a complex problem with many contributing factors, including low pay, high stress levels, and a lack of support for teachers. The pandemic has also exacerbated the shortage, as many teachers have left the profession due to burnout or health concerns.

The hiring of teachers with limited experience is a concern because these teachers are less likely to be effective in the classroom. They are also more likely to leave the profession within a few years, which can lead to further instability in the teaching workforce.

There are a number of things that can be done to address the teacher shortage, including:

• * Increasing teacher pay
• * Reducing teacher workload
• * Providing more support for teachers
• * Making teaching a more attractive career

The hiring of teachers with limited experience is a symptom of the teacher shortage. It is important to address the root causes of the shortage in order to ensure that all students have access to a quality education.

In addition to the above, here are some specific things that can be done to address the teacher shortage:

• * **Increase the number of teacher preparation programs:** There is a shortage of teachers in part because there are not enough teacher preparation programs. States and school districts should work to increase the number of teacher preparation programs in order to produce more teachers.
• * **Make it easier for people to become teachers:** The process of becoming a teacher can be long and expensive. States and school districts should make it easier for people to become teachers by providing financial assistance and by streamlining the application process.
• * **Attract more people to the teaching profession:** The teaching profession needs to be more attractive to people from all backgrounds. States and school districts should work to make teaching a more attractive career by providing competitive pay and benefits, and by creating a positive work environment for teachers.

By taking these steps, we can address the teacher shortage and ensure that all students have access to a quality education.

The State of the Teacher Workforce: A State-by-State Analysis of the Factors Influencing Teacher Shortages, Supply, Demand, and Equity is a report by the Learning Policy Institute that provides a comprehensive overview of the state of the teacher workforce in the United States. The report examines a wide range of factors that influence teacher shortages, including teacher pay, working conditions, school resources, teacher turnover, and teacher qualifications.

The report found that there are significant disparities in the teacher workforce across states. Some states, such as Massachusetts and New Jersey, have relatively strong teacher workforces, with high levels of teacher pay, strong working conditions, and low rates of teacher turnover. Other states, such as Oklahoma and South Carolina, have relatively weak teacher workforces, with low levels of teacher pay, poor working conditions, and high rates of teacher turnover.

The report also found that there are significant disparities in the teacher workforce within states. In some schools, teachers are well-paid and have strong working conditions. In other schools, teachers are underpaid and have poor working conditions. These disparities can have a significant impact on the quality of education that students receive.

The report concludes by calling for a number of policy changes to address the teacher shortage. These policy changes include:

• * Increasing teacher pay
• * Reducing teacher workload
• * Providing more support for teachers
• * Making teaching a more attractive career

The report also calls for states to collect more data on the teacher workforce in order to better understand the factors that influence teacher shortages and to develop effective policies to address them.

Here are some of the key findings of the report:

• * The teacher shortage is a growing problem in the United States.
• * The shortage is most severe in high-poverty schools and schools with large populations of students of color.
• * The shortage is due to a number of factors, including low pay, high stress levels, and a lack of support for teachers.
• * The shortage is having a negative impact on student learning.
• * There are a number of policy changes that can be made to address the teacher shortage.

The report is a valuable resource for policymakers, educators, and anyone who is interested in the state of the teacher workforce in the United States. It provides a comprehensive overview of the problem and a number of policy recommendations that can be used to address it.

FROM BING AI

The topic of teacher shortages and the impact of hiring teachers with limited experience. This is a complex and multifaceted issue that affects many schools and students across the country. Here are some key points from the web search results that I found:

• - According to a report by Ed Fuller, an associate professor in the Department of Education Policy Studies at Penn State’s College of Education, Pennsylvania school districts are hiring teachers with limited experience, those who are not fully certified, and others with temporary teaching permits to help ensure there are adults in the classroom throughout the school year¹².
• - The report found that 19% of high schools, 12% of middle schools, and 6% of elementary schools across the state hired out-of-field teachers, or those who are instructing a subject or grade they were not fully certified for, in the 2020-21 school year¹².
• - The report also found that students of color and students from low-income backgrounds were more likely to attend schools with higher rates of underqualified teachers, which could limit their opportunities and outcomes¹².
• - The teacher shortage in Pennsylvania is part of a larger national trend that has been worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has caused many teachers to retire early, quit, or take leave due to health and safety concerns, burnout, stress, and attacks on honest teaching of history³⁴⁵.
• - The teacher shortage has negative effects on students, teachers, and the public education system as a whole. It can harm students' academic achievement, social-emotional development, and access to rigorous and relevant curriculum. It can also reduce teachers' effectiveness, satisfaction, and retention. Moreover, it can undermine the quality, equity, and stability of the education system⁴⁵⁶.
• - To address the teacher shortage, experts and advocates recommend a range of short-term and long-term solutions that focus on both recruitment and retention of qualified and diverse teachers. Some of these solutions include: increasing teacher pay and school funding; improving working conditions and professional support; providing targeted incentives and scholarships for teaching in high-need areas; expanding teacher preparation programs and pathways; strengthening mentoring and induction programs; enhancing teacher diversity and cultural competence; and engaging educators in decision-making and policy-making⁴⁵⁶⁷⁸.

Bing, 8/10/2023

(1) Pennsylvania school districts are hiring teachers with limited .... https://districtadministration.com/pennsylvania-school-districts-are-hiring-teachers-with-limited-experience-amid-shortage-new-report-finds/.

(2) Pennsylvania school districts are hiring teachers with limited .... https://www.post-gazette.com/news/education/2023/08/09/pennsylvania-teacher-shortage-limited-experience-new-report/stories/202308080120.

(3) Colorado school districts are hiring teachers to start work before they .... https://coloradosun.com/2022/04/07/colorado-education-schools-teacher-shortages-teacher-preparation-programs/.

(4) The teacher shortage is real and has serious consequences. https://www.epi.org/publication/the-teacher-shortage-is-real-large-and-growing-and-worse-than-we-thought-the-first-report-in-the-perfect-storm-in-the-teacher-labor-market-series/.

(5) What's behind the teacher shortage in US schools? - Phys.org. https://phys.org/news/2022-09-teacher-shortage-schools.html.

(6) Causes And Effects Of Teacher Shortage - 865 Words | Bartleby. https://www.bartleby.com/essay/Causes-And-Effects-Of-Teacher-Shortage-PJWXLMK54WR.

(7) A Look at Solutions to Teacher Shortages | UWA Online. https://online.uwa.edu/news/teacher-shortages/.

(8) The Teacher Shortage Is Real and about to Get Much Worse. Here's Why. https://fee.org/articles/the-teacher-shortage-is-real-and-about-to-get-much-worse-heres-why/.

(9) Addressing Teacher Shortages in the Short- & Long-Term. https://edtrust.org/resource/addressing-teacher-shortages-in-the-short-long-term/.

(10) Solving Educator Shortages by Making Public Education an ... - NEA. https://www.nea.org/resource-library/solving-educator-shortages-making-public-education-attractive-and-competitive-career-path.

(11) How to Solve the Teacher Shortage (3 Possible Solutions). https://mrstockford.com/how-to-solve-the-teacher-shortage/.

(12) Tackling Teacher Shortages: What Can States and Districts Do?. https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/blog/teacher-shortage-what-can-states-and-districts-do.

The topic of the state of the teacher workforce in the United States. This is an important and timely issue that affects the quality and equity of education for millions of students. Here are some key points from the web search results that I found:

• - The Learning Policy Institute (LPI) is a nonprofit organization that conducts and communicates independent, high-quality research to improve education policy and practice¹²³. One of their main areas of focus is the teacher workforce, which they examine through various indicators of teacher supply, demand, shortages, and equity across states².
• - The LPI has created an interactive state-by-state map that highlights key factors that reflect and influence the supply and demand for teachers in each state, including conditions of teachers’ work and equitable access to qualified teachers². The map includes more than 40 indicators describing teaching conditions for the more than 3 million public school teachers in the United States. They can be used to inform policy strategies addressing shortages and ensuring equitable access to qualified and diverse teachers².
• - The map also assigns each state two ratings: a teaching attractiveness rating and a teacher equity rating. The teaching attractiveness rating builds on measures of teacher compensation, working conditions, school resources, qualifications, and teacher turnover to indicate how supportive each state appears to be of teacher recruitment and retention. The teacher equity rating indicates the extent to which students have equitable access to a well-qualified teaching workforce within a given state based on school composition of student race/ethnicity and family income².
• - Based on these ratings, the map shows that teaching conditions vary substantially across states, as do teacher supply and turnover. Generally speaking, teaching conditions in northeastern states—like Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, New York, and New Jersey—rank in the top tier. In these states, salaries are more competitive and working conditions are more supportive, based on teachers’ views of their schools¹. On the other hand, teaching conditions in southern and western states—like Mississippi, Alabama, Arizona, Nevada, and Hawaii—rank in the bottom tier. In these states, salaries are less competitive and working conditions are less supportive¹.
• - The map also shows that students of color and students from low-income backgrounds are more likely to attend schools with higher rates of underqualified teachers, which could limit their opportunities and outcomes. For example, in California, 62% of students in high-poverty schools are taught by uncertified or out-of-field teachers, compared to 25% of students in low-poverty schools². Similarly, in Texas, 47% of students in high-minority schools are taught by uncertified or out-of-field teachers, compared to 18% of students in low-minority schools².
• - The LPI also provides a technical supplement that summarizes additional factors influencing teacher supply and demand, such as information about the teacher pipeline, current teacher workforce, student enrollment, and teacher financial strain. The supplement also includes state-reported data on teaching positions left vacant or filled by teachers without full certification—key indicators of the extent of shortages².
• - The LPI's research on the state of the teacher workforce is based on a larger national study that they conducted in 2016, titled A Coming Crisis in Teaching? Teacher Supply, Demand, and Shortages in the U.S.³. This study examined the causes and consequences of the emerging teacher shortage at the national level and projected future trends based on various scenarios. The study found that four main factors were driving the shortage: a decline in teacher preparation enrollments, district efforts to return to pre-recession pupil-teacher ratios, increasing student enrollment, and high teacher attrition³.
• - The study also found that the shortage was not evenly distributed across subjects or regions. Some subjects—such as mathematics, science, special education, English language development, and foreign languages—had chronic shortages for decades. Some regions—such as urban and rural areas—also faced greater challenges in attracting and retaining qualified teachers. Moreover, the study found that the shortage was likely to grow worse over time unless policy actions were taken to address it³.

 Bing, 8/10/2023

(1) Tracking the State of the Teacher Workforce Across States. https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/blog/tracking-state-teacher-workforce-across-states.

(2) The State of the Teacher Workforce | Learning Policy Institute. https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/product/state-of-teacher-workforce-interactive.

(3) A Coming Crisis in Teaching? Teacher Supply, Demand, and Shortages in .... https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/product/coming-crisis-teaching.

BREAKING NEWS SCHOOL REQUIRED TO OUT YOU FOR CHANGING GENDER IDENTITY

 

BREAKING NEWS SCHOOL REQUIRED TO OUT YOU FOR CHANGING GENDER IDENTITY

In a shocking turn of events, schools across the United States are now required to notify parents if their child decides to change their gender identity. That's right, folks, the days of keeping your gender transition a secret from your parents are over. It's time to come out of the closet and into the open arms of your loving family...or not.

The new policies, dubbed "parental notification" or "parental rights" laws, have sparked a heated debate among educators, parents, and students alike. Supporters argue that parents have the right to know about their child's medical care, including any decisions about gender identity. Opponents, on the other hand, claim that these laws violate the privacy rights of transgender youth and put them at risk of discrimination and violence.

So, what's a transgender student to do in this brave new world? Well, fear not my gender-bending friends, because I've got some tips and tricks to help you navigate this tricky terrain with a smile on your face (and maybe a little sass in your step).

First and foremost, let's address the elephant in the room: coming out to your parents can be scary as hell. But don't worry, you're not alone. There are plenty of resources available to help you through this process, from support groups to online forums to trusted friends and family members. And remember, you don't have to do this alone. Seek out allies and advocates who can help you navigate this new terrain.

Now, let's talk about some of the practicalities of this new policy. If your school is now required to notify your parents of your gender transition, there are a few things you can do to make this process as smooth as possible. For starters, be prepared to have some tough conversations with your parents. They may not understand or accept your decision at first, but with time and patience, they may come around.

You can also work with your school to ensure that they are creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their gender identity. This means creating policies and procedures that protect transgender students from discrimination and harassment, providing training for staff on how to interact with transgender students in a respectful and affirming way, and allowing transgender students to use the restrooms and locker rooms that correspond with their gender identity.

And don't forget to have a little fun along the way. Embrace your new identity with pride and confidence. Experiment with different styles and looks that make you feel comfortable and confident in your own skin. And remember, you are not defined by your gender identity. You are a unique and valuable individual who deserves love and respect, no matter what.

So, there you have it folks. The times they are a-changin', but that doesn't mean we can't have a little fun along the way. Embrace your true self, stand tall and proud, and know that you are loved and supported by a community of fellow gender warriors who have your back.

Kern County education board meeting sparks intense debate over potential gender identification policy | KBAK https://bakersfieldnow.com/news/local/kern-county-education-board-meeting-sparks-intense-debate-over-potential-gender-identification-policy 

California school board president attacks AG probe into parental rights policy on gender identity: 'Blackmail' | Fox News https://www.foxnews.com/media/california-school-board-president-attacks-ag-probe-parental-rights-policy-blackmail 

Contentious Kern Superintendent of Schools meeting over gender identity policy https://www.kget.com/news/local-news/kern-county-board-of-education-to-discuss-notification-policy/ 

Big Education Ape: TRANS PEOPLE JUST WANT TO TO BE FREE TO BE ME AND PEE http://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/trans-people-just-want-to-to-be-free-to.html 

Big Education Ape: A GREAT DAY TO BE GAY IN CALIFORNIA OR NOT http://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/a-great-day-to-be-gay-in-california-or.html 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

There are a number of states that have passed or are considering passing policies that require teachers and staff to tell parents if their child decides to change their gender identity from the one assigned to them at birth. These policies are often referred to as "parental notification" or "parental rights" laws.

The rationale for these laws is that parents have a right to know about their child's medical care, including any decisions about gender identity. Proponents of these laws argue that parents need to be involved in their child's gender transition process in order to provide support and guidance. They also argue that parents have a right to make decisions about their child's education, and that this includes decisions about what information their child is exposed to.

Opponents of these laws argue that they violate the privacy rights of transgender youth. They argue that transgender youth are already at risk of discrimination and violence, and that these laws will make them even more vulnerable. They also argue that these laws will discourage transgender youth from coming out to their parents, which can have serious negative consequences for their mental and emotional health.

The debate over parental notification laws is likely to continue for some time. There is no easy answer to the question of whether or not these laws are in the best interests of transgender youth. However, it is important to consider the potential harms of these laws before they are implemented.

Here are some of the arguments for and against parental notification laws:

• **Arguments for parental notification laws:**
• * Parents have a right to know about their child's medical care, including any decisions about gender identity.
• * Parents need to be involved in their child's gender transition process in order to provide support and guidance.
• * Parents have a right to make decisions about their child's education, and this includes decisions about what information their child is exposed to.
• **Arguments against parental notification laws:**

• * These laws violate the privacy rights of transgender youth.
• * Transgender youth are already at risk of discrimination and violence, and these laws will make them even more vulnerable.
• * These laws will discourage transgender youth from coming out to their parents, which can have serious negative consequences for their mental and emotional health.

It is important to note that there is no consensus on the effectiveness of parental notification laws. Some studies have found that these laws can lead to increased parental involvement in the gender transition process, while other studies have found that they can have the opposite effect. More research is needed to determine the true impact of these laws.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to support parental notification laws is a complex one. There are valid arguments on both sides of the issue. It is important to weigh the potential harms and benefits of these laws before making a decision.

Schools can support transgender students in a number of ways, including:

• * **Creating a safe and inclusive environment:** Schools should create a safe and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their gender identity. This means creating policies and procedures that protect transgender students from discrimination and harassment. It also means providing training for staff on how to interact with transgender students in a respectful and affirming way.
• * **Using the correct pronouns and names:** Schools should use the correct pronouns and names for transgender students. This may seem like a small thing, but it can make a big difference in the lives of transgender students. It shows that the school respects and accepts them for who they are.
• * **Allowing transgender students to use the restrooms and locker rooms that correspond with their gender identity:** Schools should allow transgender students to use the restrooms and locker rooms that correspond with their gender identity. This is important for the safety and privacy of transgender students.
• * **Providing transgender students with access to gender-affirming care:** Schools should provide transgender students with access to gender-affirming care, such as hormone therapy and surgery. This care can help transgender students feel more comfortable in their own bodies and can improve their mental and emotional health.
• * **Creating a gender-neutral option for school records:** Schools should create a gender-neutral option for school records. This allows transgender students to have their records reflect their gender identity.
• * **Providing transgender students with support groups and resources:** Schools should provide transgender students with support groups and resources. This can help transgender students connect with other transgender people and learn about their rights.

By taking these steps, schools can create a safe and supportive environment for transgender students. This can help transgender students thrive in school and in life.

In addition to the above, here are some specific things that schools can do to support transgender students:

• * **Train staff on transgender issues:** Schools should provide training for staff on transgender issues. This training should cover topics such as the basics of transgender identity, the importance of using correct pronouns and names, and how to create a safe and inclusive environment for transgender students.
• * **Create a transgender student support plan:** Schools should create a transgender student support plan. This plan should outline the specific steps that the school will take to support transgender students. It should also include a list of resources that are available to transgender students.
• * **Reach out to transgender student organizations:** Schools should reach out to transgender student organizations. These organizations can provide valuable information and resources to the school. They can also help the school to connect with transgender students and to learn more about their needs.
• * **Be responsive to transgender students' concerns:** Schools should be responsive to transgender students' concerns. If a transgender student has a problem, the school should take it seriously and work to resolve it.
• * **Celebrate transgender identities:** Schools should celebrate transgender identities. This can be done by hosting events that highlight the contributions of transgender people, or by creating a space for transgender students to share their stories.

By taking these steps, schools can show transgender students that they are welcome and supported. This can make a real difference in the lives of transgender students.

FROM BING AI

Policies that require teachers and staff to tell parents if their child decides to change their gender identity from the one assigned to them at birth:

• - According to a guide for transgender and gender nonconforming students by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and GLSEN, public schools are legally required to protect all students from harassment and discrimination based on gender identity and expression¹. The guide also states that students have the right to be themselves in school, which includes their choice of name, pronouns, clothing, and prom date¹. However, the guide does not mention any specific policy regarding parental notification or consent for students who decide to change their gender identity.
• - Some schools in the United States, such as Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia and Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland, have adopted policies that bar teachers from "outing" transgender students to parents without the students' permission². These policies are meant to guard students against parents who may not be supportive of their child's transition². However, some legal experts have argued that these policies violate the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974, which gives parents the right to access their child's educational records². They also claim that these policies infringe on the parental authority protected by the 14th Amendment².
• - On the other hand, some states have proposed or enacted legislation that would require schools to inform parents if their child exhibits any signs of gender dysphoria or nonconformity. For example, a bill introduced in North Carolina in April 2021 would mandate school employees to report to parents in writing if their child is expressing a gender identity different from their biological sex³. Similarly, a policy in Washington state requires teachers to conceal students' gender transitions from parents unless the student gives the green light for their parents to know⁴.

As you can see, there is no uniform policy across the United States regarding parental involvement in students' gender identity decisions. The issue is complex and controversial, and different stakeholders may have different opinions and concerns. 

Bing, 8/10/2023

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

(2) Some Schools Won't Tell Parents When Their Kids Express Gender .... https://freebeacon.com/campus/some-schools-wont-tell-parents-when-their-kids-express-gender-confusion-experts-say-thats-illegal/.

(3) New NC bill would require schools to tell parents if a child ‘exhibits .... https://thehill.com/changing-america/respect/equality/546995-new-nc-bill-would-require-schools-to-tell-parents-if-a/.

(4) Washington State Tells Teachers To Hide Student Gender Transitions From .... https://www.dailywire.com/news/washington-state-tells-teachers-to-hide-student-gender-transitions-from-parents.

Schools can support transgender students in various ways, such as:

• - Using welcoming and inclusive language in school, district, college, and university mission statements, such as a commitment to ensuring a safe and supportive campus that is free from discrimination and harassment for LGBTQ+ students¹.
• - Ensuring that school policies clearly affirm students’ right to be free from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in all aspects of school, including the nondiscriminatory use of discipline and equal access to school programs and activities¹.
• - Adopting policies that respect all students’ gender identities—such as the use the name a student goes by, which may be different from their legal name, and pronouns that reflect a student’s gender identity—and implementing policies to safeguard students’ privacy—such as maintaining the confidentiality of a student’s birth name or sex assigned at birth if the student wishes to keep this information private, unless the disclosure is legally required¹².
• - Adopting policies or model plans to guide school staff on how to support students and communicate with families, such as developmentally appropriate protocols to support students in any transition process, and a checklist of issues to discuss with the student or their family¹.
• - Allowing transgender students to use restrooms and locker rooms that match their gender identity³.
• - Addressing transgender students with their preferred name and using pronouns that correspond with their gender identity³.
• - Protecting transgender students from harassment and bullying, and providing them with counseling and support services if needed³.
• - Allowing transgender students to start a support club or join an existing one, such as a Gay-Straight Alliance or a Gender-Sexuality Alliance³.
• - Avoiding taking attendance aloud until you have given students a chance to contact you with their correct names in case different names appear on the roster⁵.
• - Providing professional development and training for teachers and staff on how to create an inclusive and respectful learning environment for transgender students²⁴.

Bing, 8/10/2023

(1) U.S Department of Education Supporting Transgender Youth in School (PDF). https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/ed-factsheet-transgender-202106.pdf.

(2) Supporting Transgender and Gender Diverse Students in Schools. https://www.apa.org/pi/lgbt/programs/safe-supportive/lgbt/school-administrators.pdf.

(3) Understanding Transgender Students - National School Boards Association. https://www.nsba.org/ASBJ/Past-Issues/June/Understanding-transgender-students.

(4) Supporting Transgender Students in the Classroom - Faculty Focus. https://www.facultyfocus.com/articles/effective-classroom-management/supporting-transgender-students-classroom/.

(5) Taking Steps to Support Transgender Students and School Communities - NAIS. https://www.nais.org/learn/independent-ideas/november-2016/taking-steps-to-support-transgender-students-and-s/.

FLORIDA ED COMMISH MANNY DIAZ JR, CHICKEN OR JUST CHICKEN POO

FLORIDA ED COMMISH MANNY DIAZ JR, CHICKEN OR JUST CHICKEN POO

In a recent turn of events, Florida Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. pulled out of a town hall meeting in Miami Gardens to discuss the state's new standards for teaching Black history. Some speculate that Diaz is a chicken, while others argue that he's just chicken poo.

The town hall was organized by State Sen. Shevrin Jones, who is the first openly gay African American state senator in Florida. Diaz's decision to pull out of the town hall came amid widespread criticism of the state's new Black history standards. The standards have been accused of watering down the teaching of Black history and of downplaying the role of slavery and racism in American history.

In a statement, Jones said that Diaz's decision to pull out of the town hall was "deeply disappointing." He said that Diaz "lacks the will and courage to defend his Department's misguided curriculum changes." Ouch, that must have stung like a bee.

Diaz defended his decision to pull out of the town hall, saying that he had a scheduling conflict. Yeah right, we believe you Manny. He also said that he had already met with Jones and other stakeholders to discuss the new Black history standards. But let's be real, meeting behind closed doors is not the same as facing the public.

However, many people believe that Diaz's decision to pull out of the town hall was a sign that he is afraid to defend the new standards. They argue that the standards are an attempt to whitewash history and that Diaz is not willing to face the public criticism of them. We're starting to think that maybe Diaz is just a big ol' chicken.

The controversy over the new Black history standards is just the latest in a series of battles over race and education in Florida. In recent years, the state has passed laws that restrict the teaching of critical race theory and that make it more difficult for students to learn about systemic racism. It seems like Florida just can't get it together when it comes to educating their youth on important issues.

The controversy over the new Black history standards is likely to continue in the coming months. It is a reminder of the deep divisions that exist over race and education in Florida. But hey, at least we can all agree on one thing: Manny Diaz Jr. is a chicken. Or maybe just chicken poo. Either way, he's not exactly winning any bravery awards anytime soon.

In conclusion, it's time for Florida to step up and do better when it comes to educating their students on important issues like Black history and systemic racism. And it's time for Manny Diaz Jr. to stop being a chicken and face the public criticism head-on. Until then, we'll just be over here making chicken jokes. Sorry, not sorry Manny.

State Education Secretary Diaz pulled out of Miami Gardens town hall - CBS Miami https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/video/state-education-secretary-diaz-pulled-out-of-miami-gardens-town-hall/ 

Florida education commissioner pulls out of Black history panel | Miami Herald https://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/education/article278114292.html 

Florida education commissioner pulls out of Miami Gardens town hall on Black History in education https://www.local10.com/news/local/2023/08/10/florida-education-commissioner-pulls-out-of-miami-gardens-town-hall-on-black-history-in-education/

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

On August 9, 2023, Florida Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. pulled out of a town hall meeting in Miami Gardens to discuss the state's new standards for teaching Black history. The town hall was organized by State Sen. Shevrin Jones, who is the first openly gay African American state senator in Florida.

Diaz's decision to pull out of the town hall came amid widespread criticism of the state's new Black history standards. The standards have been accused of watering down the teaching of Black history and of downplaying the role of slavery and racism in American history.

In a statement, Jones said that Diaz's decision to pull out of the town hall was "deeply disappointing." He said that Diaz "lacks the will and courage to defend his Department's misguided curriculum changes."

Diaz defended his decision to pull out of the town hall, saying that he had a scheduling conflict. He also said that he had already met with Jones and other stakeholders to discuss the new Black history standards.

However, many people believe that Diaz's decision to pull out of the town hall was a sign that he is afraid to defend the new standards. They argue that the standards are an attempt to whitewash history and that Diaz is not willing to face the public criticism of them.

The controversy over the new Black history standards is just the latest in a series of battles over race and education in Florida. In recent years, the state has passed laws that restrict the teaching of critical race theory and that make it more difficult for students to learn about systemic racism.

The controversy over the new Black history standards is likely to continue in the coming months. It is a reminder of the deep divisions that exist over race and education in Florida.

FROM BING AI

Florida education commissioner pulling out of Black history town hall in Miami Gardens. Here is a summary of what I found from various sources:

• - The town hall was organized by State Sen. Shevrin Jones, State Sen. Rosalind Osgood, and Miami-Dade School Board member Steve Gallon III to discuss the state's new standards for teaching Black history in Florida public schools¹²³.
• - The new standards, which were approved by the Florida Board of Education in June 2023, have been criticized for suggesting that enslaved people benefited from their bondage, equating racial violence and Black resistance, and minimizing the uniqueness of American slavery¹⁴.
• - Florida Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr., who was appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2022, was expected to attend the town hall and defend the new standards, but he canceled his participation on Wednesday, August 9, 2023¹²³.
• - Diaz said he had to visit schools throughout the state to welcome back students, parents and teachers for the first day of school, but Jones said he was disappointed that Diaz lacked the will and courage to face the community¹²³.
• - The town hall was held on Thursday, August 10, 2023 at Antioch Baptist Church in Miami Gardens, one of the largest Black cities in the state, and more than 1,000 people had signed up for the event¹²³.
• - The organizers and attendees of the town hall expressed their frustration and anger over the new standards and Diaz's absence, and called for more input and transparency from the state on how Black history is taught in schools¹²³.

Bing, 8/10/2023

(1) Florida education commissioner pulls out of Black history town hall in .... https://news.yahoo.com/florida-education-commissioner-pulls-black-230537113.html.

(2) Florida education commissioner pulls out of Miami Gardens town hall on .... https://www.local10.com/news/local/2023/08/10/florida-education-commissioner-pulls-out-of-miami-gardens-town-hall-on-black-history-in-education/.

(3) Education Commissioner pulls out of town hall on Black history .... https://floridapolitics.com/archives/628052-education-commissioner-pulls-out-of-town-hall-on-black-history-education-standards/.

(4) Florida Explains Why It Blocked Black History Class—and It’s a Doozy. https://www.thedailybeast.com/florida-department-of-education-gives-bizarre-reasoning-for-banning-ap-african-american-history.

(5) FL: Education Commissioner pulls out of town hall on Black history .... https://democraticunderground.com/100218168742.