DARK BIDEN VOWS NEVER TO GIVE UP ON AMERICAN STUDENTS

 

DARK BIDEN VOWS NEVER TO GIVE UP ON AMERICAN STUDENTS

In a recent press conference, President Joe Biden reaffirmed his commitment to American students by taking another shot at student loans. With his signature wit and charm, Biden announced the launch of the Department of Education's new income-driven repayment plan, SAVE (Simplified Aid for Earnings-Based Repayment). 

The plan, which replaces the REPAYE plan, offers a reduced maximum monthly payment of 5% of discretionary income for undergraduate loans, down from 10%. In addition, loan balances will be forgiven after 10 years of payments instead of 20 years if the original loan balance is $12,000 or less. 

Biden, who has been dubbed "Dark Biden" by some due to his relentless pursuit of student loan reform, vowed to never give up on American students. "I may be getting up there in age, but I still have plenty of fight left in me," he quipped. "And let me tell you, student loans are no match for Dark Biden." 

The Biden administration has been working closely with grassroots organizations to spread awareness about the new plan. Borrowers can sign up through their loan servicer or directly on StudentAid.gov. However, there are concerns about loan servicers being able to handle the transition to SAVE and borrowers potentially not receiving adequate information about the new plan. 

Despite these concerns, Dark Biden remains optimistic. "I have faith in the American people," he said. "We've been through tough times before, and we always come out stronger on the other side. With SAVE, we're giving borrowers a fighting chance to get out from under the crushing weight of student loan debt." 

Critics have accused Dark Biden of being too focused on student loan reform and not enough on other issues facing the country. But Biden brushed off these criticisms with a joke. "Listen, I may be a one-issue president, but at least it's an issue that affects millions of Americans," he said with a grin. 

As for what's next for Dark Biden and his crusade against student loan debt? "Who knows," he said with a shrug. "Maybe I'll take up knitting or something. But one thing's for sure: I'll never stop fighting for what's right." 

In the end, only time will tell if Dark Biden's efforts will pay off. But for now, borrowers can rest a little easier knowing that there's someone in their corner who's willing to go to bat for them. And who knows? Maybe one day we'll all be able to look back and say that Dark Biden was the hero we never knew we needed.

Student loans: Biden officially launches new, affordable payment plan https://finance.yahoo.com/news/student-loans-biden-officially-launches-new-affordable-payment-plan-192759189.html 

SCHOOL HAS STARTED, TECH BILLIONAIRES LICKING THEIR CHOPS, PROFITS IN EDUCATION HAVE BECOME SENTIENT, PRIVATIZE NET DEATHSTAR LAUNCH IMMINENT

SCHOOL HAS STARTED, TECH BILLIONAIRES LICKING THEIR CHOPS, PROFITS IN EDUCATION HAVE BECOME SENTIENT, PRIVATIZE NET DEATHSTAR LAUNCH IMMINENT

School has started and the tech billionaires are licking their chops as profits in education have become sentient. The launch of PrivatizeNet Deathstar is imminent. But what does this mean for the classroom? Are we going to be replaced by robots? Will we be forced to take orders from our new AI overlords? Fear not, dear reader, for AI is not here to replace us, but to help us.

One of the ways that AI is being used in classrooms this year is through personalized learning. This means that AI can analyze student data, such as grades, learning patterns, and preferences, to adapt content and delivery methods to individual needs and learning styles. Finally, students can stop complaining about how boring math is and actually learn something!

But that's not all. AI-powered virtual tutors are also providing one-on-one help to students, answering their questions and providing feedback on their work. It's like having a personal tutor, but without the awkward small talk and bad breath.

And let's not forget about gamification. AI can create gamified learning experiences, which can make learning more fun and engaging for students. It's like playing Fortnite, but with math equations instead of guns. Who knew that learning could be so cool?

But wait, there's more! AI can also be used to automate grading. No more late nights spent grading papers with a red pen. Now, the AI system can grade student assignments quickly and accurately, freeing up teachers' time so they can focus on other tasks, like playing Candy Crush or scrolling through Instagram.

And if students have questions or need help, they can turn to AI chatbots. These chatbots can answer students' questions, provide information about the curriculum, and help students stay on track with their work. It's like having Siri as your personal assistant, but instead of asking for directions, you're asking for help with your homework.

But what about the teachers? Don't worry, AI hasn't forgotten about us. AI virtual assistants can help us with tasks such as scheduling, planning lessons, and managing student data. It's like having a personal assistant, but without the attitude and constant eye-rolling.

So, what does all of this mean for the future of education? Will AI take over our jobs? Will we be replaced by robots? The answer is no. AI is here to help us, not replace us. With AI taking care of the more mundane tasks, we can focus on what we do best: teaching and inspiring the next generation.

In conclusion, AI is not something to fear in the classroom. It's something to embrace. With personalized learning, virtual tutors, gamification, automated grading, chatbots, and virtual assistants, we can create a more engaging and effective learning environment for our students. So let's welcome our new robot overlords with open arms and a sense of humor. After all, who knows what kind of jokes they'll come up with next?

Schools shrug off cheating concerns and embrace AI - POLITICO https://www.politico.com/news/2023/08/23/chatgpt-ai-chatbots-in-classrooms-00111662 

Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Teaching and Learning Insights and Recommendations  https://www2.ed.gov/documents/ai-report/ai-report.pdf 

AI In ID: The Role Of Artificial Intelligence In Instructional Design https://elearningindustry.com/role-of-artificial-intelligence-in-instructional-design    

AI in Education - Everything You Need to Know in 2023 https://www.business2community.com/statistics/ai-in-education 

How Widespread Will AI Be in Classrooms This Year? Teachers Offer Some Clues https://www.edweek.org/technology/how-widespread-will-ai-be-in-classrooms-this-year-teachers-offer-some-clues/2023/08

Kids Are Going Back to School. So Is ChatGPT | WIRED https://www.wired.com/story/chatgpt-schools-plagiarism-lesson-plans/ 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

Some of the ways that AI is being used in classrooms this year:

• * **Personalized learning:** AI can be used to analyze student data, such as grades, learning patterns, and preferences, to adapt content and delivery methods to individual needs and learning styles. This can help students learn more effectively and efficiently.
• * **Virtual tutoring:** AI-powered tutors can provide one-on-one help to students, answering their questions and providing feedback on their work. This can be especially helpful for students who are struggling or who need extra help.
• * **Gamification:** AI can be used to create gamified learning experiences, which can make learning more fun and engaging for students. This can help students stay motivated and interested in learning.
• * **Automated grading:** AI can be used to grade student assignments, freeing up teachers' time so they can focus on other tasks, such as planning lessons and providing feedback to students.
• * **Chatbots:** AI chatbots can answer students' questions, provide information about the curriculum, and help students stay on track with their work. This can be especially helpful for students who are shy or who don't want to ask questions in front of the class.
• * **Virtual assistants:** AI virtual assistants can help teachers with tasks such as scheduling, planning lessons, and managing student data. This can help teachers save time and focus on teaching.

These are just a few of the ways that AI is being used in classrooms this year. As AI technology continues to develop, we can expect to see even more innovative and effective ways to use AI in education.

Here are some specific examples of how AI is being used in classrooms this year:

• * In a school in California, AI is being used to create personalized learning plans for each student. The AI system analyzes student data, such as grades, test scores, and interests, to create a unique plan that will help each student succeed.
• * In a school in New York, AI is being used to provide virtual tutoring to students. The AI tutors can answer students' questions, provide feedback on their work, and help them stay on track with their studies.
• * In a school in Texas, AI is being used to gamify the learning experience. Students earn points and badges for completing tasks, and they can compete with their classmates for the highest scores.
• * In a school in Florida, AI is being used to automate grading. The AI system can grade student assignments quickly and accurately, freeing up teachers' time so they can focus on other tasks.
• * In a school in Illinois, AI is being used to create chatbots that can answer students' questions and provide information about the curriculum. The chatbots are available 24/7, so students can get help whenever they need it.

These are just a few examples of how AI is being used in classrooms this year. As AI technology continues to develop, we can expect to see even more innovative and effective ways to use AI in education.

FROM BING AI

AI in the classroom is a hot topic in education, especially as schools have started to reopen after the pandemic. AI can offer various benefits for teachers and students, such as personalized learning, real-time feedback, and administrative support. However, AI also poses some challenges and risks, such as ethical issues, data privacy, and social implications. Here are some examples of how AI is being used in the classroom this year:

• - Khan Academy, a popular online learning platform, has launched Khanmigo, an AI-powered guide that acts as a personal tutor and a teaching assistant for students and teachers⁵. Khanmigo can help students with math and computer programming exercises, provide context-aware help for video content, encourage Socratic dialogue and debate, and write with students rather than for them. For teachers, Khanmigo can explain answers and teaching methods, help with lesson planning, and create progress reports⁵.
• - ClassPoint, a classroom engagement tool that integrates with PowerPoint, has introduced ClassPoint AI, a quiz question generator that can create multiple-choice questions based on any text or image in seconds⁶. ClassPoint AI can also generate distractors (wrong answers) and explanations for each question. Teachers can use ClassPoint AI to create interactive quizzes for their students without spending hours on preparing questions⁶.
• - Curiosity Robotics, a company that develops educational robots, has launched Aico, a friendly robot that uses AI to help children learn English as a second language³. Aico can interact with children through voice and gestures, provide feedback and encouragement, and adapt to each child's level and progress. Aico can also play games and tell stories with children to make learning fun and engaging³.
• - UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, has published a report on the challenges and opportunities of AI in education⁸. The report features case studies on how AI technology is helping education systems use data to improve educational equity and quality. Concrete examples from countries such as China, Brazil and South Africa are examined on AI's contribution to learning outcomes, access to education and teacher support⁸.

These are just some of the ways that AI is being used in the classroom this year. AI has the potential to transform education for the better, but it also requires careful consideration of its limitations and risks. As educators and learners, we should be aware of the opportunities and challenges of AI in education and use it wisely and responsibly.

Bing, 8/23/2023

• (1) Sal Khan’s 2023 TED Talk: AI in the classroom can transform education. https://blog.khanacademy.org/sal-khans-2023-ted-talk-ai-in-the-classroom-can-transform-education/.
• (2) The Ultimate Guide To Classroom AI In 2023 - ClassPoint Blog. https://blog.classpoint.io/classroom-ai/.
• (3) Rise of the robots: The new AI tech poised to take over classrooms. https://neworleanscitybusiness.com/blog/2023/08/22/rise-of-the-robots-the-new-ai-tech-poised-to-take-over-classrooms/.
• (4) The challenges and opportunities of Artificial Intelligence in ... - UNESCO. https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/challenges-and-opportunities-artificial-intelligence-education.
• (5) Dear Superintendents, Get Ready For the AI Guidance Revolution. https://www.forbes.com/sites/vinaybhaskara/2023/08/23/dear-superintendents-get-ready-for-the-ai-guidance-revolution/.
• (6) The GPT college classroom is almost here, but professors say AI isn't the real threat. https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/gpt-college-classroom-almost-professors-084525326.html.
• (7) How AI can transform education for students and teachers | World .... https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2023/05/ai-accelerate-students-holistic-development-teaching-fulfilling.
• (8) Educator Voice: Artificial intelligence attempts Black history (and .... https://www.pbs.org/newshour/classroom/2023/03/educator-voice-artificial-intelligence-attempts-black-history-and-fails/.

MAGA PUSHES OVER 400 CULTURE WAR BILLS IN 2 YEARS, ACCORDING TO A NEW REPORT FROM PEN AMERICA

MAGA PUSHES OVER 400 CULTURE WAR BILLS IN 2 YEARS, ACCORDING TO A NEW REPORT FROM  PEN AMERICA

In a recent report from PEN America, it has been revealed that MAGA has pushed over 400 culture war bills in just 2 years. Now, I know what you're thinking - "Wow, that's impressive!" But before we start handing out participation trophies, let's take a closer look at what these bills actually entail.

According to the report, these bills are best understood as forms of educational intimidation. They don't directly censor or prohibit curricular content, but they do create a chilling effect that encourages self-censorship among educators. In other words, they're like the schoolyard bully who doesn't hit you, but stands there looking menacing until you give him your lunch money.

These bills give parents, government officials, and citizens greater influence over what is taught in public schools. Now, I'm all for parental involvement in education, but these bills take it to a whole new level. They enable blanket restrictions on books and curricula for all students, effectively disempowering other parents and overriding their preferences. It's like saying "I don't like this book, so no one can read it." Talk about being a buzzkill.

And it's not just about books. A growing subset of these bills aims to restrict LGBTQ+ representation and expression in public schools. They discourage discussions of gender and sexuality, ban preferred pronoun use, and even require mandatory reporting mechanisms for parents to be alerted of perceived changes to students' gender identity or sexual orientation. This places pressure on educators to monitor and police students' expression, which is just plain creepy.

But wait, there's more! These bills are part of a broader effort to foment anger and anxiety about public education, restrict or prohibit instruction about race, sexuality, and gender, and ban books that address these topics. It's like the conservative version of "The Hunger Games," where the only winner is ignorance.

So where are these bills coming from? According to the report, conservative groups such as the Alliance Defending Freedom, the Family Research Council, the Liberty Counsel and the American Principles Project are behind a multimillion-dollar effort targeting LGBTQ rights through "parents' rights" bills. It's like they're trying to turn back the clock to the 1950s, when conformity was king and individuality was frowned upon.

And let's not forget about Missouri, which has introduced the most educational intimidation bills in the nation. That's right, Missouri - the Show-Me State is showing us all how to be bullies. They've introduced 31 bills since January 2021 that are largely focused on race and gender. It's like they're trying to erase history and pretend that discrimination never happened.

But don't worry, folks - there is some good news. Less than 10% of these bills have actually passed. So maybe there is hope for our education system after all. And who knows - maybe one day we'll even be able to teach our kids about tolerance and acceptance without fear of retribution.

In conclusion, these culture war bills are like a bad case of indigestion - they make you feel uncomfortable, they're hard to digest, and they leave a bad taste in your mouth. So let's all take a deep breath and remember that education is supposed to be about learning and growth, not fear and intimidation. And maybe, just maybe, we can all work together to create a brighter future for our children.

Educational Intimidation Bills - PEN America https://pen.org/report/educational-intimidation/

Republicans Pushed Almost 400 “Education Intimidation” Bills in Two Years https://theintercept.com/2023/08/23/school-censorship-bills-pen-america/

Education "intimidation" bills have spiked since 2021, report says https://www.axios.com/2023/08/23/education-intimidation-pen-america-lgbtq-schools-crt 

Missouri No. 1 for school censorship measures, report says https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/education/missouri-no-1-for-school-censorship-measures-report-says/article_bba04662-4129-11ee-becb-335099610ea2.html 

OKLAHOMA'S MAGA MAD MONK OF EDUCATION RYAN 'RASPUTIN' WALTERS RUNS OFF TPS SUP GIST

 

OKLAHOMA'S MAGA MAD MONK OF EDUCATION RYAN 'RASPUTIN' WALTERS RUNS OFF TPS SUP GIST

Oklahoma's superintendent of public instruction, Ryan Walters, has been causing quite a stir in the education world lately. From calling for prayer in public schools to hanging the Ten Commandments in classrooms, Walters has been pushing his conservative agenda on the state's largest district, Tulsa Public Schools (TPS). But it seems his tactics have finally caught up with him, as TPS Superintendent Deborah Gist has announced her resignation amid a looming vote on the district's accreditation status.

Walters' work in Oklahoma offers a preview of the policies and tactics that could continue spreading to other states with conservative education leaders. His regulations prohibiting school libraries from circulating books with “sexualized content” and requiring educators to tell parents if their child changes their gender identity have sparked controversy and outrage from the LGBTQ+ community.

But it's not just Walters' policies that have people talking. His attacks on Gist and TPS have been politically motivated, according to TPS School Board member John Croisant. Walters has accused Gist of mismanagement and criticized her tenure, calling her departure a positive step. The State Board meeting on Thursday will determine TPS's accreditation fate, and tensions are high among parents and students as they fear the possibility of being reassigned to the nearest accredited school.

Walters' tactics have been compared to those of a mad monk, with his conservative beliefs and extreme measures causing chaos in the education world. He has been accused of using every trick in the billionaire's playbook to disrupt and destroy public education, and community leaders are speaking out against the possibility of TPS losing its accreditation.

One student, Lance Brightmire, has organized a student-led town hall to voice concerns about the state targeting TPS. The Protect TPS town hall is set for August 19th, and it's sure to be a lively event.

As for Walters, he's reportedly mulling a bid for governor in 2026, and his attacks on TPS and the Biden administration's education policies are likely to appeal to Republican voters. But for now, he'll have to deal with the fallout from Gist's resignation and the uncertain future of TPS.

Tulsa Superintendent Deborah Gist to Step Down Amid Feud With Anti-Woke School Boss Ryan Walters https://www.thedailybeast.com/tulsa-superintendent-deborah-gist-to-step-down-amid-feud-with-anti-woke-school-boss-ryan-walters 

Ahead of state board decision, TPS Superintendent Deborah Gist announces departure https://nondoc.com/2023/08/22/ahead-of-state-board-decision-tps-superintendent-deborah-gist-announces-departure/ via @nondocmedia 

State Superintendent, Tulsa Public Schools board member react to Gist's resignation | KTUL https://ktul.com/news/local/state-superintendent-tps-school-board-member-react-to-deborah-gists-resignation 

TPS Board To Approve Interim Superintendent Following Gist's Resignation https://www.news9.com/story/64e5660bba2d257829853178/tps-board-to-approve-interim-superintendent-following-gists-resignation

Big Education Ape: OKLA SSPI RYAN WALTERS DECLARES WAR ON TULSA PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND SUP GIST #OklaEd https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/okla-sspi-ryan-walters-declares-war-on.html 

Big Education Ape: OKLA SSPI RYAN WALTERS TIMES ATTACKS ON TULSA PUBLIC SCHOOLS TO INTENTIONALLY DISRUPT THE OPENING OF SCHOOLS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/okla-sspi-ryan-walters-times-attacks-on.html 

Big Education Ape: OKLAHOMA'S MAGA MAD MONK OF EDUCATION RYAN 'RASPUTIN' WALTERS GOES AFTER TPS SUP DEBORAH GIST LIKE SHE STOLE HIS LUNCH MONEY https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/08/oklahomas-maga-mad-monk-of-education.html 

How Oklahoma Superintendent Ryan Walters is pushing Christianity in schools https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/ryan-walters-oklahoma-schools-superintendent-tulsa-rcna101235 

ARKANSAS DEPT OF ED DEMANDS DISTRICT THAT TEACH THE TRUTH MUST TURN OVER ALL TRUTHFUL AMERICAN HISTORY MATERIAL... BY MIDNIGHT

ARKANSAS DEPT OF ED DEMANDS DISTRICT THAT TEACH THE TRUTH MUST TURN OVER ALL TRUTHFUL AMERICAN HISTORY MATERIAL... BY MIDNIGHT

In a move that has left many scratching their heads, the Arkansas Department of Education has continued its push to rewrite history and deny students the opportunity to learn the truth about America's past. The department has demanded that districts turn over all materials related to the recently pulled Advanced Placement African American Studies pilot program, citing concerns that the program may not comply with Arkansas law.

The move has been met with ridicule and derision from educators and activists alike, who see it as yet another attempt by the state to whitewash history and maintain the status quo. "It's like they want to keep students in the dark about the real history of this country," said one teacher, who wished to remain anonymous.

The controversy began when Arkansas became the latest state to pull the controversial College Board AP African American Studies pilot program from its schools. The move was met with outrage from civil rights activists and educators, who saw it as an attempt to silence voices that have long been marginalized in American society.

But the Arkansas Department of Education remained undeterred, insisting that the pilot program may not comply with Arkansas law, which does not permit teaching that would indoctrinate students with ideologies, such as Critical Race Theory. As a result, superintendents must "submit all materials, including but not limited to the syllabus, textbooks, teacher resources, student resources, rubrics, and training materials, to the Department by 12:00 pm on September 8, 2023."

Many have criticized the move, arguing that it is yet another attempt by the state to maintain a culture war on the truth about America's history. "It's like they're trying to keep us in the dark ages," said one student, who wished to remain anonymous. "We need to learn about our past so we can build a better future."

But despite the controversy, some districts are pushing back against the state's attempts to silence them. Little Rock Central High School, which became famous during the 1950s civil rights movement, is one such district. The school's principal, Nancy Rousseau, has called on legislators to repeal the law that restricts the teaching of race and social justice in schools. "This law would take away the ability of our teachers to teach all of history -- the good and the bad," she said.

The Little Rock Nine, a group of nine black students who made history as the first to integrate the school in 1957, have also spoken out against the legislation. "We fought too hard for our right to an education to let them take it away now," said one member of the group.

Despite these protests, the Arkansas Department of Education remains steadfast in its determination to rewrite history and deny students the opportunity to learn about their past. But as one teacher put it: "You can't hide from history forever. Sooner or later, the truth will come out." And when it does, we can only hope that Arkansas will be ready to face it head-on with honesty and humility.

Arkansas Department of Education throws down gauntlet on CRT, demands public schools turn over materials | Fox News https://www.foxnews.com/politics/arkansas-department-education-throws-gauntlet-crt-demands-public-schools-turn-over-materials 

Arkansas Education Secretary sends letter to 5 school districts concerning AP African American Studies | KARK https://www.kark.com/news/education/arkansas-education-secretary-sends-letter-to-5-school-districts-concerning-ap-african-american-studies/ 

Historic 'Little Rock Nine' school pushes back on Arkansas law limiting race studies - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2iFthKBRpfA 

Arkansas school district says it will continue offering AP African American Studies course | KATV https://katv.com/news/local/arkansas-school-district-says-it-will-continue-offering-ap-african-american-studies-course-advanced-placement-department-of-education-kimberly-mundell-college-board-little-rock-central-high-school-racial-desegregation-crisis-racisim-critical-race-theory

MEATAXE MIKE CUTS AUTISM SERVICES TEAM, PROVES HE TRULY DESERVES HIS NICKNAME

MEATAXE MIKE CUTS AUTISM SERVICES TEAM,  PROVES HE TRULY DESERVES HIS NICKNAME

In a move that has left teachers scratching their heads and parents fuming, MeatAxe Mike Miles has cut services to the special education department in the Houston Independent School District. Yes, you read that right. MeatAxe Mike is back and he's proving that he truly deserves the nickname.

But don't worry, folks. MeatAxe Mike isn't just cutting services to students with autism. He's also turning libraries into discipline centers. Because who needs books when you can have detention?

The autism support team, which consisted of around six teachers who supported Structured Learning Classrooms (SLCs) that specialised in serving students with autism, has been eliminated as part of an organisational overhaul that included eliminating over 2,300 positions and reorganising the administration into four divisions. And you thought your job was safe.

The move has been criticised by some teachers who said the itinerant teachers were "invaluable for brand new teachers" and were often the first port of call when there were crises in the classroom. But MeatAxe Mike doesn't care about crises. He cares about cutting costs and ticking off parents.

A parent of a child with autism in the Houston Independent School District (HISD) expressed concern over the dismantling of the district's autism support team. The parent worries that without the team, her child and others with special needs will not receive adequate support. But HISD, however, has stated that students with autism and other special needs will continue to be properly served. Sure they will.

Let's face it, folks. MeatAxe Mike is just following the billionaire privatization playbook. You know, the chapter on cutting services to students to piss off parents at the public schools that are losing services left and right. Because who needs public schools when you can have private schools that only cater to the elite?

But don't worry, folks. MeatAxe Mike plans to release a comprehensive plan for the district's special education services in September. I'm sure it will be comprehensive in the sense that it will comprehensively tick off parents and teachers alike.

The Houston Independent School District (HISD) is the largest public school system in Texas and the seventh-largest in the United States¹. It serves about 200,000 students, of which about 16,000 are eligible for special education services². And now they can all look forward to even less support than before.

The HISD has been under state takeover since November 2019, due to poor academic performance and a failure to comply with federal laws on special education³. And now, thanks to MeatAxe Mike, it's under takeover by a guy who thinks it's a good idea to cut services to students with special needs.

But don't worry, folks. The district spokesperson said that the itinerant teachers are still on payroll and will be allowed to apply for other positions that will still provide support and coaching for SLC classrooms, but to a much more defined group of campuses. Because who needs consistency when you can have chaos?

The restructuring also comes after the district eliminated nearly two dozen licensed school psychologists and educational diagnosticians who were supposed to support special education students this school year as independent contractors. The district said it prefers full-time, district personnel over third-party vendors. Because who needs expertise when you can have people who are just happy to have a job?

The HISD has been facing a chronic shortage of special education staff and resources for years, resulting in a large gap between the number of students who need special education services and those who actually receive them. According to a report by Disability Rights Texas, HISD led Texas with a $166 million special education funding shortfall in 2018-2019. But don't worry, folks. MeatAxe Mike is on the case.

The HISD is also under investigation by the U.S. Department of Education for violating the civil rights of students with disabilities by denying them access to appropriate educational services. The investigation was launched in response to a complaint filed by Disability Rights Texas in 2019, alleging that HISD systematically failed to identify, evaluate and serve students with disabilities, especially those with dyslexia, autism and mental health issues. But don't worry, folks. MeatAxe Mike has got this.

The HISD must become fully compliant with special education laws in order to exit the state takeover and transition back to local control. However, some advocates and parents fear that the recent changes made by Miles will further jeopardize the quality and availability of special education services in the district, especially for students with autism. But don't worry, folks. MeatAxe Mike knows what he's doing.

In all seriousness, this move by HISD is just another example of their disregard for students with special needs. The district has been under state takeover since November 2019 due to poor academic performance and a failure to comply with federal laws on special education.

MeatAxe Mike's latest move is just another step in the wrong direction. Instead of cutting services to students with special needs, HISD should be investing in them. It's time for HISD to get their act together and start putting students first.

Until then, we'll be waiting for MeatAxe Mike's next brilliant idea. Maybe he'll turn cafeterias into detention centers or gymnasiums into sweatshops. Who knows? With MeatAxe Mike at the helm, anything is possible.

Houston ISD slashes autism services team, cutting “lifeline” for special ed teachers days before start of class – Houston Public Media https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/education-news/hisd/2023/08/21/460152/houston-isd-slashes-autism-services-team-cutting-lifeline-for-special-ed-teachers-days-before-start-of-class/ 

'We’re not happy' | HISD parent worried about dismantling of HISD's autism support team - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rypgKc4Czo 

FROM BING AI

Houston ISD cutting its autism support team:

• - The Houston Independent School District (HISD) is the largest public school system in Texas and the seventh-largest in the United States¹. It serves about 200,000 students, of which about 16,000 are eligible for special education services².
• - The HISD has been under state takeover since November 2019, due to poor academic performance and a failure to comply with federal laws on special education³. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) appointed Mike Miles as the superintendent of HISD in June 2023, with the mandate to improve the district's performance and governance.
• - Miles has initiated a major overhaul of the district's central office, eliminating more than 2,300 positions and reorganizing the administration into four divisions based on geographic areas. Each division has three units that contain two feeder patterns, and each unit has a special education "unit" consisting of a director, a manager and two coordinators.
• - As part of this restructuring, Miles has dissolved the autism services team, which consisted of about half a dozen "itinerant teachers" who primarily supported teachers in Structured Learning Classrooms (SLCs), which specialize in serving students with autism. The itinerant teachers provided coaching, training, resources and crisis intervention for SLC teachers and other staff who worked with autistic students in various settings.
• - The elimination of the autism services team has raised concerns among SLC teachers, who relied on the itinerant teachers as their "lifeline" for dealing with the unique needs and challenges of autistic students. Some SLC teachers said they were not informed of the decision until last week, just days before the start of classes on August 28.
• - The district spokesperson said that the itinerant teachers are still on payroll and will be allowed to apply for other positions that will still provide support and coaching for SLC classrooms, but to a much more defined group of campuses. However, some SLC teachers said that the new positions are not specialized for autism and that they will not receive the same level of services as before.
• - The district spokesperson also said that the new model will allow support to be closer to the assigned campuses and enable staff to provide more focused support to a smaller number of schools. However, some critics said that the new model will create more bureaucracy and confusion, and that it will not address the underlying issues of underfunding and understaffing in special education.
• - The restructuring also comes after the district eliminated nearly two dozen licensed school psychologists and educational diagnosticians who were supposed to support special education students this school year as independent contractors. The district said it prefers full-time, district personnel over third-party vendors.
• - The HISD has been facing a chronic shortage of special education staff and resources for years, resulting in a large gap between the number of students who need special education services and those who actually receive them. According to a report by Disability Rights Texas, HISD led Texas with a $166 million special education funding shortfall in 2018-2019.
• - The HISD is also under investigation by the U.S. Department of Education for violating the civil rights of students with disabilities by denying them access to appropriate educational services. The investigation was launched in response to a complaint filed by Disability Rights Texas in 2019, alleging that HISD systematically failed to identify, evaluate and serve students with disabilities, especially those with dyslexia, autism and mental health issues.
• - The HISD must become fully compliant with special education laws in order to exit the state takeover and transition back to local control. However, some advocates and parents fear that the recent changes made by Miles will further jeopardize the quality and availability of special education services in the district, especially for students with autism.

Bing, 8/22/2023

• (1) Houston ISD slashes autism services team, cutting “lifeline” for .... https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/education-news/hisd/2023/08/21/460152/houston-isd-slashes-autism-services-team-cutting-lifeline-for-special-ed-teachers-days-before-start-of-class/.
• (2) HISD Superintendent Mike Miles disbands autism support team. https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/education/article/hisd-autism-support-teachers-disbanded-18306705.php.
• (3) Families worried about dismantling of HISD's autism support team - KHOU.com. https://www.khou.com/article/news/education/hisd-parents-concern-autism-students/285-d5db8996-1d33-469c-bade-70cabf552129.

GET PREPARED FOR THE BACK TO SCHOOL CULTURE WARS : A parent’s guide to K-12 school success

 BACK TO SCHOOL: A parent’s guide to K-12 school success

AVOID THE SCHOOL CULTURE WARS

A parent’s guide to K-12 school success

click on picture

What Schools Can Do To Support Parents

• Recognize that all parents, regardless of income, education or cultural background, are involved in their children's learning and want their children to do well.

• Design programs that will support families to guide their children's learning,from preschool through high school.

• Develop the capacity of school staff and families to work together.

• Link activities and programs for families to improving student learning.

• Focus on developing trusting and respectful relationships among staff and families.

• Build families' social and political connections.

• Embrace a philosophy of partnership and be willing to share power.

• Make sure that parents, school staff, and community members understand that the responsibility for children's educational development is a collaborative enterprise.

• Build strong connections between schools and community organizations.

• Include families in all strategies to reduce the achievement gap between white, middle-class students and low-income students and students of color.

Everyone Loves Lists

Below you will find a couple of lists of things parents can do to "help" at school. Not all schools offer some of the things on the list, you can ask your child's teacher or principal if your school offers these opportunities to support your child at school. 

SUPPORT ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
• Read to students
• Serve as a guest speaker
• Donate newspapers for instructional programs
• Provide feedback on writing projects
• Assist in literacy programs
• Share science demonstrations
• Provide computer workshops
• Judge science fairs
• Share math in the workplace and the connection to school work
• Teach music
• Guide instrumental music practice sessions
• Provide choral music support
• Share dance skills and techniques
• Assist with choreography
• Design and coordinate murals
• Assist with set design
• Assist with costume design and production
• Provide apprentice programs
• Share photography expertise
• Support art and music appreciation
• Provide physical education coaching
• Assist with curriculum development to relate to life after high school
• Support student service learning and community service projects

SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
• Share industry and personal expertise
• Provide computer support
• Sponsor school retreats
• Sponsor health/CPR certification classes and clinics
• Provide venues and food for professional development meetings

JUMP START STUDENT CAREERS
• Conduct job seeker workshops – from resume writing to mock interviews
• Offer work place problem-solving skills
• Serve as consultants to students operating school-based enterprises
• Provide educational fieldtrips to your facility for students and staff
• Provide on the job training, mentorships and job training for students
• Create and support job shadow days
• Provide “job skills” workshops and seminars
• Provide entrepreneurial seminars and workshops

ENCOURAGE STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
• Display student art work in offices and lobbies
• Provide gift certificates, complimentary tickets, etc for academic success and improvement
• Establish attendance incentives
• Provide scholarships

TUTOR AND MENTOR
• Volunteer as tutors in all areas of the curriculum
• Provide assembly programs stressing good health, safety and character-building
• Provide mentors and tutors for specific students
• Provide personnel to facilitate “dialogue” for various student groups
• Develop apprentice programs
• Serve as a mentor in physical education
• Support study skill development
• Provide supportive services and personalization of the educational experience for students and parents
• Serve as model for life-long recreation, health and wellness

SUPPORT AND DONATE
• Sponsor uniforms and costumes, (Sports, Cheerleading, Drill Team, Theater, etc.)
• Donate audiovisual equipment and sound systems
• Donate books to the library
• Donate math, science, and language materials to laboratories
• Donate new curtains for school auditoriums
• Donate office supplies and surplus equipment
• Provide technical support to students and school staff
• Provide bus transportation or donate entrance fees for educational field trips
• Provide eyeglasses and doctor’s care for identified students
• Provide financial support to the PTSA or Booster Club
• Provide holiday enhancements including educational toys, books, or gift baskets
• Provide printing services for school newspapers, yearbooks, parent handbooks, and programs for special events
• Assist with organizing special school events
• Assist with organization/management  of  mandatory health exams
• Assist with Back-to-School programs
• Assist with year-end projects
• Provide shop tools
• Provide sewing machines
• Donate fabrics
• Serve  on a school Advisory Board
• Sponsor student “clubs” to develop leadership skills and promote interest in your industry
• Provide ongoing support for existing programs including Advancement Via Individual Determination –AVID, Math Engineering Science Achievement-MESA, College Ready
• Assist with field trips
• Commit to at least one hour per week for your employees to assist at schools

BEAUTIFY OUR CAMPUSES
• Paint identified areas of the school
• Plant and maintain school gardens
• Assist in setting up family school work days
• Design and paint school murals
• Commission artists for school beautification designs

ENGAGE OUR PARENTS
• Provide busses for family field trips
• Sponsor museum memberships
• Provide support to school site parent centers
• Provide tickets to museums, games, special events
• Provide leadership workshops
• Support English as a Second Language classes on the school site
• Provide parenting workshops
• Provide event planning workshops and professional development
• Fund parent newsletters
• Supply parent centers with desks, copiers, and supplies
• Donate food for parent meetings
• Provide direct event planning support
• Present at parent nights, speaking about the importance of education and the specific skills required in your industry

SUPPORT LITERACY
• Purchase new books or computers for school libraries
• Purchase shelving
• Volunteer as a librarian
• Assist students with research
• Provide support for or  matching funds for Wonder of Reading Libraries
• Sponsor school reading/literacy events

1. Share information with a student or class about a hobby.
2. Share information with a student or a class about a career.
3. Share information with students about a country you visited or lived in.
4. Tutor one or a small group of students in reading, math, or other area.
5. Help coach an athletic team.
6. Help check a student's written work.
7. Help put out a school or classroom newsletter (can also be done at home).
8. Help sew or paint a display.
9. Help build something (such as a loft in a classroom or new playground).
10. Help students work on a finalexhibition or project (can also be done at home or workplace).
11. Help answer the schools' phone.
12. Help plan a new playground for the school.*
13. Help plan a theme-based presentation for students.*
14. Help present a theme-based program for students.*
15. Demonstrate cooking from a particular country or culture to students.*
16. Share a particular expertise with faculty (such as use of computers, dealing with disruptive students).
17. Help students plan and build an outdoor garden or other project to beautify the outside of the school.
18. Help coach students competing in an academic competition (such as Odyssey of the Mind, Future Problem Solving, Math Masters).
19. Help bring senior citizens to school to watch a student production.
Help arrange learning opportunities in the community.


1. Help set up an internship or apprenticeship for a student at your business, organization, or agency.*
2. Host a one-day 'shadow study' for one or a small group of students about your career in business or some other organization.
3. Go on a local field trip with a teacher and a group of students.
4. Go on an extended (3-5 day) cross-country field trip with a teacher & students.*
5. Contact a particular local business or organization regarding possible cooperation.*
6. Help to create a natural area outside the building where students can learn.
Serve on an advisory or decision-making committee.
7. Serve on the school-wide site council.
8. Serve on a school committee that reports to the site council.
9. Serve on a district committee representing the school.
10. Serve as an officer in the school's PTA.
11. Help organize a parent organization for the school.
12. Help design a parent and or student survey for the school.
13. Help conduct and or tabulate results of a parent survey regarding the school.
Share information or advocate for the school.
14. Serve as a member of a 'telephone tree' to distribute information quickly.
15. Write a letter to legislators about the school.
16. Write a letter to school board members about the school.
17. Go to a school board meeting to advocate for the school.
18. Go to another school to provide information about this school.
19. Help design a brochure or booklet about the school.
20. Help translate information from the school into a language other than English.
21. Help translate at a parent-teacher conference for people who don't speak English well.
22. Provide transportation to a parent-teacher conference for a parent who needs a ride.
23. Write an article for publication in a magazine about the school's activities.
24. Help arrange for a political leader (mayor, city council, state representative, member of Congress) to visit the school.
Increase financial resources available to the school.
25. Help write a proposal that would bring new resources to the school.
26. Donate materials to the school.
27. Arrange for a business or other organization to donate materials to the school.
28. Help with a fundraiser for the school.
Help other parents develop their parenting skills.
29. Help teach a class for parents on ways they can be stronger parents.
30. Help produce a videotape for parents on ways they can be more effective parents.
31. Help write, publish, and distribute a list of parenting tips."

BE CREATIVE AND PROVIDE YOUR UNIQUE SUGGESTIONS!
These lists are not copyrighted; readers may reproduce them for their own use.

On The Web a Wonderful Resource: 


Engaging Parents In School… | Going Beyond Parent "Involvement" - http://engagingparentsinschool.edublogs.org/

THE HEAT IS ON: CAN STANDARDIZED TESTING SURVIVE EXTREME TEMPERATURES

THE HEAT IS ON: CAN STANDARDIZED TESTING SURVIVE EXTREME TEMPERATURES

As temperatures continue to rise across the United States, students are facing a new challenge in their academic pursuits: extreme heat. That's right folks, it's not just the standardized tests that are causing stress and anxiety, now we have to worry about the weather too!

According to a recent report from The Hill, hotter temperatures during the school year have been shown to reduce the rate of learning and negatively affect test scores. And who is bearing the brunt of this heat? Children in rural or low-income areas, where school districts may not have adequate air conditioning.

But let's be real, who actually enjoys taking tests in a stuffy, overheated classroom? It's like trying to concentrate while sitting in a sauna. And don't even get me started on the sweat stains that inevitably form on your test paper. Talk about ruining your score!

The problem is only made worse by the learning gap brought on by COVID-19 and remote learning. It's hard enough to stay focused during a virtual class, but add in some extreme heat and you've got a recipe for disaster.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "Just turn on the air conditioning!" But unfortunately, school districts in poorer and rural regions are less likely to have adequate infrastructure and air conditioning. This contributes substantially to the racial gap in test scores or educational achievements.

And let's not forget about the northern school districts that lack good air conditioning altogether. Some students may not even be able to attend class as temperatures increase, which is a pretty lame excuse for skipping out on a pop quiz if you ask me.

So what's the solution to this "very hard problem"? Well, according to experts, policymakers need to tackle both mitigating climate change and updating school infrastructure and air conditioning. But let's be real, that's easier said than done.

In the meantime, I propose we take matters into our own hands. Bring a personal fan to your next test, or better yet, petition your school district for a snow day equivalent for extreme heat. I mean, if they can cancel school for a little bit of snow, why not for a heat wave?

In conclusion, extreme heat is just another obstacle that students have to overcome in their academic journey. But with a little bit of humor and creativity, we can make the best of a sweaty situation. So crank up the AC (if you're lucky enough to have it) and keep cool, my fellow test-takers.

Students’ test scores, already beleaguered, face new threats from extreme heat | The Hill https://thehill.com/homenews/education/4158875-students-test-scores-already-beleaguered-face-new-threats-from-extreme-heat/ 

SAY GOODBYE TO TWIT-X: META'S THREADS WEB VERSION IS HERE TO SAVE US ALL

 

SAY GOODBYE TO TWIT-X

META'S THREADS WEB VERSION IS HERE TO SAVE US ALL

In a move that's sure to delight fans of the popular messaging app, Threads, Meta (formerly known as Facebook) has announced that a web version of the app is on the way. The news comes as a welcome relief to those who have been frustrated with the mobile-only nature of the app, which has been a thorn in the side of users ever since it was launched in 2019.

According to reports, the web version of Threads will have many of the same features as the mobile app, including the ability to create groups based on shared interests, chat with friends, and share content. This is great news for those who have been clamoring for a more usable experience, and it's sure to entice users back to the app in droves.

Of course, the announcement of a web version of Threads couldn't come at a better time, as the diabolical Elon Musk continues to dismantle Twit-X. The stable genius has been causing chaos on the social media platform for months now, and it's clear that something needs to be done to stop him.

As you can see, we're pretty excited about the launch of Threads' web version. Not only will it give us a much-needed break from Elon Musk's Twitter antics, but it will also provide us with a fun and engaging way to connect with our friends and family online.

So, if you're tired of dealing with all the drama on other social media platforms, why not give Threads a try? With its easy-to-use interface and fun features, it's sure to become your new favorite way to stay connected with the people you care about most.

Threads desktop version is finally coming | Mashable https://mashable.com/article/threads-desktop-version-launch-soon 

Meta to soon launch web version of Threads in race with X for users | Reuters https://www.reuters.com/technology/meta-launch-web-version-threads-app-early-next-week-wsj-2023-08-21/ 

FLORIDA: WHERE NICKNAMES ARE MORE DANGEROUS THAN HURRICANES

 

FLORIDA: WHERE NICKNAMES ARE MORE DANGEROUS THAN HURRICANES

Florida, the state that gave us Disney World, alligators, and the infamous "Florida Man" headlines, has now added another title to its repertoire: the most homophobic state in the union. And who better to make this announcement than Governor Ronald DeSantis, the man who looks like he's constantly trying to suppress a smirk?

But what led to this dubious honor? It all started with the Florida nickname law, which sounds like something straight out of a comedy sketch. This law, also known as the "Parental Rights in Education" law, was passed in July 2022 and has been causing quite a stir ever since.

The nickname law is a real piece of work. It prohibits schools from teaching about sexual orientation or gender identity in kindergarten through third grade. Because we all know that five-year-olds are just dying to learn about gender identity. The law also requires parental consent for any instruction about these topics in other grades. Because nothing says "parental rights" like denying your child access to information that could help them understand themselves and others.

But wait, it gets better. The nickname law also requires schools to get parental consent before using a student's nickname or any "deviation from the student's legal name." Because apparently, using a nickname is now a threat to national security. This provision has been criticized by LGBTQ advocates, who say it could be used to discriminate against transgender and non-binary students. But hey, who cares about discrimination when you can have control over your child's name?

Governor DeSantis, who signed the nickname law into effect, is a Republican known for his conservative views on education and social issues. He's also known for his uncanny ability to look like a cartoon villain. Seriously, have you seen this guy? He looks like he's about to cackle and twirl his mustache at any moment.

Supporters of the nickname law say that it's necessary to protect children from being exposed to inappropriate content about sexual orientation and gender identity. Because apparently, acknowledging that LGBTQ people exist is now considered "inappropriate content." Others say that the law gives parents more control over their children's education. Because nothing says "I love you" like denying your child access to information that could help them understand themselves and others.

Opponents of the law say that it's discriminatory and could harm transgender and non-binary students. They also say that the law is unnecessary and that schools are already doing a good job of teaching about sexual orientation and gender identity in a sensitive and age-appropriate way. But who needs sensitivity when you can have control over your child's name?

The Florida nickname law is currently being challenged in court by LGBTQ advocates who argue that the law is unconstitutional and violates the First Amendment. The case is still pending, but one thing's for sure: this law has sparked a debate about the role of schools in teaching about sexual orientation and gender identity. And if there's one thing Florida loves, it's a good debate.

So what does this all mean for the future of education in Florida? It's hard to say. But one thing's for sure: if you're a student in Florida, you better hope your parents are cool with your nickname. Otherwise, you might just have to go by your legal name, which is probably something boring like William Robert.

In conclusion, Florida may now be the most homophobic state in the union, but at least we can still laugh about it. After all, if we can't find humor in the absurdity of our laws, what can we find humor in? So let's all raise a glass to the Florida nickname law: the law that proves that sometimes reality is stranger than fiction.

Florida requires a form for student nicknames. Here's where to find it https://www.theledger.com/story/news/education/2023/08/21/florida-requires-a-form-for-student-nicknames-heres-where-to-find-it/70620918007/ 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

Florida's nickname law and why it was passed:

Florida's nickname law, also known as the "Parental Rights in Education" law, was passed in July 2022. The law prohibits schools from teaching about sexual orientation or gender identity in kindergarten through third grade, and requires parental consent for any instruction about these topics in other grades.

The law also requires schools to get parental consent before using a student's nickname or any "deviation from the student's legal name." This provision has been criticized by LGBTQ advocates, who say it could be used to discriminate against transgender and non-binary students.

The law was passed by the Florida legislature and signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis. DeSantis is a Republican who is known for his conservative views on education and social issues.

There are several reasons why the Florida nickname law was passed. Some supporters of the law say that it is necessary to protect children from being exposed to inappropriate content about sexual orientation and gender identity. Others say that the law gives parents more control over their children's education.

Opponents of the law say that it is discriminatory and could harm transgender and non-binary students. They also say that the law is unnecessary and that schools are already doing a good job of teaching about sexual orientation and gender identity in a sensitive and age-appropriate way.

The Florida nickname law is currently being challenged in court. A lawsuit filed by LGBTQ advocates argues that the law is unconstitutional and violates the First Amendment. The case is still pending.

It is unclear what the long-term impact of the Florida nickname law will be. However, it is clear that the law has sparked a debate about the role of schools in teaching about sexual orientation and gender identity. This debate is likely to continue for many years to come.

Here are some additional details about the Florida nickname law:

• * The law applies to all public schools in Florida, including charter schools.
• * The law does not define what constitutes a "nickname" or a "deviation from the student's legal name." This has left schools and parents uncertain about how to comply with the law.
• * The law does not specify any penalties for schools that violate the law. However, it is possible that parents could sue schools that do not get their consent before using their child's nickname.

The Florida nickname law is just one example of the growing trend of states passing laws that restrict the teaching of about sexual orientation and gender identity in schools. These laws have been met with widespread criticism from LGBTQ advocates and educators. It remains to be seen how these laws will be implemented and what their impact will be on students.

FROM BING AI

Thank you for your interest in Florida's nickname law. 

• - Florida's nickname law was adopted in July 2023 by the Florida Board of Education as part of a broader parental rights bill known as House Bill 1069.
• - The law requires parents to give written consent for schools to use any deviation or nickname from their child's legal name in school. Without this consent, school personnel are obligated to use the legal name as it appears on the birth certificate⁴ [^10^].
• - The law also prohibits school employees from being required to use certain titles and pronouns that do not correspond to the child's sex assigned at birth, and restricts classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity from prekindergarten through grade eight[^10^] .
• - The law has been criticized by LGBTQ rights groups, educators, and civil liberties advocates as a discriminatory and unnecessary measure that targets transgender and non-binary students who may not be out to their parents or who may face rejection or abuse at home⁷⁹¹¹.
• - The law has also been seen as an example of the state's overreach and interference in classrooms, creating more bureaucracy and paperwork for teachers and parents, and violating the privacy and dignity of students⁹¹¹.
• - The law has been defended by Governor Ron DeSantis and some Republican lawmakers as a way to protect students from having to declare their pronouns in school, and to strengthen the rights of parents and safeguard their child's educational record⁷ .

Bing, 8/21/2023

• (1) New law requires parents to sign permission slip for students .... https://abc-7.com/news/politics/2023/08/09/new-law-requires-parents-to-sign-permission-slip-for-students-nicknames-in-schools/.
• (2) Florida schools require parents permission to use students' nicknames. https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/state/2023/08/09/florida-schools-require-parents-permission-to-use-student-nickname/70556899007/.
• (3) Florida Students Now Need Parental Permission to Use Nicknames .... https://people.com/florida-students-now-need-parental-permission-use-non-legal-name-7571342.
• (4) Florida new school nickname rules are a stretch | Miami Herald. https://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/editorials/article278337344.html.
• (5) Some Florida Students Need Parent's Permission to Use Nickname. https://www.businessinsider.com/florida-students-some-need-parents-permission-nickname-ron-desantis-2023-8.
• (6) DeSantis changed Florida’s NIL law this year. Is it still competitive?. https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/ncaafb/desantis-changed-florida-s-nil-law-this-year-is-it-still-competitive/ar-AA1ftWEw.
• (7) Does your child use a nickname at a Polk school? There's a form for that. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/does-your-child-use-a-nickname-at-a-polk-school-theres-a-form-for-that/ar-AA1fydAe.
• (8) Is Florida’s NIL state law still competitive nationally? - Yahoo News. https://news.yahoo.com/florida-nil-state-law-still-100000453.html.
• (9) Florida schools require parents permission to use students' nicknames. https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/news/state/2023/08/09/florida-schools-require-parents-permission-to-use-student-nickname/70556899007/.
• (10) Parents in Florida must OK a teacher calling their child by a nickname .... https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/2023-08-11/parents-in-florida-must-ok-a-teacher-calling-their-child-by-a-nickname.
• (11) Florida's Nickname - Learn what Florida's State nickname is - Foreign USA. https://foreignusa.com/floridas-state-nickname/.
• (12) Florida Students Now Need Parental Permission to Use Nicknames, 'Alternate' Names Under New Ron DeSantis Rule. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/florida-students-now-need-parental-permission-to-use-nicknames-alternate-names-under-new-ron-desantis-rule/ar-AA1eYa9P.
• (13) Florida’s NIL law cost Tampa a high school star. Should it change?. https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/more-sports/florida-s-nil-law-cost-tampa-a-high-school-star-should-it-change/ar-AA1frgJL.
• (14) Parent with gay, non-binary children reacts to Florida school rule changes. https://www.clickorlando.com/news/investigators/2023/08/16/parent-with-gay-non-binary-children-reacts-to-florida-school-rule-changes/.