Parents' Rights Now!

Tell us whatcha' think! Send a text to us, here! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on our podcast.

In this episode of the Parents Rights in Education podcast, Hanna introduces the podcast's mission to empower parents in their child's education through free trainings and community support. Suzanne Gallagher then speaks with guest Amy Breitenstein, a new school board member from Moses Lake, Washington. Amy shares her motivation for running, driven by a desire to enact change rather than just complain. She discusses a contentious issue in her district— the construction of a smaller, project-based learning school instead of a second traditional high school, which has caused community frustration due to mismanagement and underutilization.

Amy and Suzanne discuss the importance of parental voice in education decisions, highlighting how endorsements from organizations like Parents Rights in Education can influence school board elections. Amy emphasizes engaging the community to address bullying and improve school policies, recognizing the need for clear consequences for misbehavior. Suzanne advises leveraging supporter networks for effective community engagement. The podcast closes with an invitation for parents to join their movement and utilize their resources for effective school board involvement.

Support the show

If you need assistance with a situation in your area, please fill out our free consultation form.

DONATE TODAY!
www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

Tell us whatcha' think! Send a text to us, here! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on our podcast.

In this episode of The Parents' Rights in Education podcast, we dive into the contentious debate over whether local school board elections should be partisan. Traditionally, these races have been non-partisan, intended to keep the focus on educational issues rather than political ideology. However, the reality often paints a different picture, as candidates typically come with ideological leanings and party affiliations, which can be misleading to voters.

We explore how proponents of partisan elections, like Arizona Senator Justine Wadsack, argue that such transparency is necessary to give voters clear, honest information about where candidates stand on crucial educational policies. This could potentially lead to better-informed decisions that directly impact children's education.

On the other hand, critics worry that introducing explicit partisanship could heighten tensions and further politicize school boards, making these roles even more contentious and potentially deterring qualified candidates.

We also discuss the impact of low voter turnout in these elections and how clearer party affiliations might encourage greater voter engagement by making it easier for voters to understand candidates' platforms.

Join us as we unpack the complexities of this issue, looking at both sides of the argument, and consider what the future of school board elections might hold. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how this change could affect educational governance and what it means for parental rights in education.

Support the show

If you need assistance with a situation in your area, please fill out our free consultation form.

DONATE TODAY!
www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

Tell us whatcha' think! Send a text to us, here! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on our podcast.

Ohio's House Bill 183, termed the "Bathroom Bill," mandates that K-12 public schools and higher education institutions designate bathrooms based on biological sex. Introduced by Republican Representatives Beth Lear and Adam Bird, it aims to ensure safety, according to its proponents. However, the bill has encountered significant opposition, with over 100 detractors arguing it discriminates against transgender students. A committee vote is imminent, with significant Republican support anticipated.

Arizona's SB1097, proposed by Senator Justine Wadsack, seeks to make school board elections partisan. The bill has passed initial stages with party-line support in the Republican-majority Senate and House committee. The Arizona School Boards Association opposes the measure, citing concerns about partisanship in educational governance. Advocates argue the change would better inform voters by revealing candidates' political affiliations. The full House vote is pending, with significant implications for party representation in elections.

A Pew Research Center survey reveals that 51% of Americans believe public K-12 education is heading in the wrong direction, citing insufficient focus on core academic subjects, politicization by teachers, and inadequate funding as key concerns. Only 16% see it as moving in the right direction. Partisan differences are notable, with Republicans and Democrats diverging on the reasons for their dissatisfaction. The survey highlights a growing discontent with the direction of educational policy in the U.S.

In Portland, Oregon, a lawsuit has been filed against Portland Public Schools, Multnomah County, and a nonprofit after a 9-year-old girl was allegedly raped by classmates at Scott Elementary School and its after-school program. Seeking $9 million, the suit claims negligence in monitoring and training, failing to report the incident promptly, and inadequately handling the victim's complaints of earlier sexual harassment. The legal action underscores serious concerns about student safety and response protocols in educational settings.

Support the show

If you need assistance with a situation in your area, please fill out our free consultation form.

DONATE TODAY!
www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

Tell us whatcha' think! Send a text to us, here! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on our podcast.

Suzanne talks with Missie Carra about school choice in Texas and how not-so-obvious language is injected into new bills that will adversely impact education and parents’ rights.

Support the show

If you need assistance with a situation in your area, please fill out our free consultation form.

DONATE TODAY!
www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

Tell us whatcha' think! Send a text to us, here! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on our podcast.

Parents’ Rights in Focus

Engagement in local education is crucial for shaping public school policies. Here’s how to get involved effectively:

Stay Informed: Access and read school and district communications through websites and newspapers. School board agendas and minutes are publicly available and are essential for understanding upcoming decisions.

Understand the Process: Learn about policy development, budgeting, and curriculum approval processes. Districts encourage public input, yet actual community participation is often low.

Volunteer and Network: Participate in school events and activities to connect with the community. Volunteering for events or Career Day can make a significant difference.

Attend School Board Meetings: Active participation in school board meetings allows you to observe and influence the district's direction. Engaging in the curriculum approval process and voicing concerns about educational materials are ways to contribute.

Run for School Board: If the current board does not reflect community values, consider running for a position. School boards make critical decisions regarding education policies, curricula, and district management.

There are over 90,000 school board members in the U.S., making them a significant force in education. By taking part in school board elections, individuals can ensure educational policies align with community standards.

This approach combines staying informed, engaging in governance, volunteering, participating in board meetings, and potentially running for a board position. Through these steps, individuals can play a pivotal role in the educational landscape.

Support the show

If you need assistance with a situation in your area, please fill out our free consultation form.

DONATE TODAY!
www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

Tell us whatcha' think! Send a text to us, here! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on our podcast.

The new Wyoming law, SF0009, mandates parental consent for teaching about gender identity and sexual orientation in schools. It requires districts to share well-being questionnaires and health screening tools with parents/guardians for consent before use and mandates teacher notifications to parents about changes in students' health. Critics argue it could lead to legal issues for educators from unsatisfied parents. The law outlines a complaint resolution process, takes effect on July 1, and encourages proactive familiarization with its provisions.

The Murrieta Valley school district is under investigation for a policy requiring staff to inform parents if a student identifies with a gender different from their birth certificate, termed "forced outing." This has drawn comparisons to a previous issue in Chino Valley. State and federal probes were triggered by complaints from district teachers. The California Department of Education demanded the policy's end, threatening funding withdrawal. Attorney General Rob Bonta has sued the district, citing discrimination. There's a call to action supporting parental rights against state interference.

The Roxbury School Board voted 6-4 to potentially rescind a policy allowing transgender students to self-identify their gender without parental consent, use preferred restrooms, and participate in activities matching their gender identity. Initiated in 2019 to align with state guidelines, this decision awaits a final vote. Advocates for rescinding argue it restores parental rights. They urge public support for board members favoring the repeal, recommending attendance at the next reading, social media advocacy, and direct expressions of gratitude to these members.

Affiliate Shoutout

David Hunt
 Role: Local Affiliate Leader 
 Location: Moses Lake, Washington
 
 Bio: David became an Affiliate leader last year and has been recruiting members for his Affiliate group nonstop! He is active in his area and was instrumental in identifying pro-parental rights candidates for his school board and getting them elected!
 
 Thank you David for protecting students by standing up for Parents' Rights!

Support the show

If you need assistance with a situation in your area, please fill out our free consultation form.

DONATE TODAY!
www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

Tell us whatcha' think! Send a text to us, here! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on our podcast.

Suzanne Gallagher welcomed Sunday Shibley from Willis, Texas, to discuss parents' rights in education and local school district activism. Shibley shared her journey from being unaware of school content issues to becoming a state Grassroots Coordinator and advocate for parental rights. She emphasizes the importance of educating parents on school happenings and actively works to remove inappropriate books from schools, facing challenges such as being labeled "unhinged" for directly quoting controversial material at school board meetings. Shibley’s efforts include attending school board meetings, campaigning, and using social media platforms to inform and rally support. Despite setbacks, such as surgery and pushback from school authorities, she perseveres in advocating for book removals and engaging in legislative efforts. Her work has sparked community support, leading to increased parental involvement and prayer groups for schools. Shibley emphasizes the need for protecting children from inappropriate content, challenging school book selections, and advocating for parental oversight in educational content. Gallagher praises Shibley's dedication and suggests broader community actions, like petitions, to support school change. The conversation underscores the importance of parental involvement, transparency in school materials, and the ongoing struggle to ensure educational environments align with community values.

Support the show

If you need assistance with a situation in your area, please fill out our free consultation form.

DONATE TODAY!
www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

Tell us whatcha' think! Send a text to us, here! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on our podcast.

The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution upholds free speech, including at school board meetings and within schools, albeit with certain limitations. School board meetings, being public forums, cannot legally restrict speech based on content. However, they can impose restrictions on the place, time, and manner of speech, provided these restrictions are content-neutral. Instances of violation include a Louisiana teacher's removal from a meeting for speaking on salary issues, and a Washington state parent barred from school grounds, both situations highlighting the critical balance between free speech and school policy enforcement.

For students, the Supreme Court has recognized their right to free speech in schools, except where it disrupts learning or infringes on others' rights. Landmark cases like Tinker v. Des Moines established that students do not lose their free speech rights at school, but subsequent rulings have nuanced this stance. For example, Bethel School District v. Fraser allowed schools to prohibit vulgar or lewd speech, and Morse v. Frederick permitted the restriction of speech promoting illegal drug use.

Noteworthy cases reflecting these principles include Addison Barnes, who was disciplined for wearing a political T-shirt, leading to a lawsuit and a settlement affirming his free speech rights. Similarly, Jaiden Rodriguez faced disciplinary action for displaying patches, including the Gadsden flag, on his backpack, which was initially perceived as violating the dress code due to its historical connections. This decision was later reversed, acknowledging the importance of historical context and free speech.

These examples underline the evolving dialogue around free speech rights for parents, students, and teachers, emphasizing the need for awareness and advocacy to ensure these rights are protected and respected in educational settings.

Support the show

If you need assistance with a situation in your area, please fill out our free consultation form.

DONATE TODAY!
www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

Tell us whatcha' think! Send a text to us, here! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on our podcast.

Alabama - Senate Bill 129 

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signed Senate Bill 129, banning "divisive concepts" in education and restricting DEI programs, effective from October 1, 2024. Citizens are urged to monitor compliance and report violations.

Washington State's Senate Bill 5462 mandates teaching LGBTQ history in schools from 2025, aiming for a more inclusive curriculum. Critics argue it promotes explicit content. Citizens are encouraged to express concerns to representatives.

Virginia Governor Youngkin criticized the Loudoun County School Board's decision to turn off cameras during public comments, arguing it diminishes transparency. He emphasized the board's duty to parents and announced plans to enhance parental notification regarding school incidents. Citizens are urged to personally record school board meetings.

Support the show

If you need assistance with a situation in your area, please fill out our free consultation form.

DONATE TODAY!
www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

Tell us whatcha' think! Send a text to us, here! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on our podcast.

In this podcast episode from the "Parents Rights in Education" series, Suzanne Gallagher converses with Camille Kiefel, founder of the nonprofit organization D Trans Help. Kiefel shares her personal journey through gender identity struggles, including undergoing a non-binary mastectomy funded by Medicaid, which ultimately led to worsening mental health and physical health issues. She speaks about her extensive experience with mental health treatments, including dialectical behavior therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation, none of which provided relief until she focused on her physical health. This led her to question the fast-track process for gender transition surgeries and the lack of support for those wishing to detransition.

Kiefel's organization, D Trans Help, aims to provide support for detransitioners, highlighting the medical and bureaucratic challenges they face, such as the absence of an ICD-10 code for detransition, which complicates insurance billing for necessary medical care. The discussion touches on broader issues around gender transition policies, the quick diagnosis and recommendation for major surgeries without exploring underlying health issues or alternative treatments, and the financial and ideological motives that may influence the healthcare system's approach to gender dysphoria. Kiefel's testimony against a conversion therapy bill in Oregon underscores the complex landscape of legal and medical standards affecting individuals with gender dysphoria and those considering detransitioning.

Support the show

If you need assistance with a situation in your area, please fill out our free consultation form.

DONATE TODAY!
www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com