Legislation and Policy
This information is provided only to inform FASFEPA members on important policy issues. The views and opinions expressed in any articles or writings linked on this page are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of FASFEPA.
October 23, 2017 Changes to Federal Special Education Policy
From Politico.Com
DEVOS SCRAPS SPECIAL EDUCATION GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS: The Education Department's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services on Friday said it rescinded 72 documents that provide guidelines on special education policy and issues because they're "outdated, unnecessary, or ineffective." Kimberly Richey, acting assistant secretary of OSERS, said that the 72 documents had been scrapped to help fulfill President Donald Trump's February executive order aimed at cutting back on regulations. Caitlin Emma has more.
- Most of the rescinded guidelines are housed under the Office of Special Education Programs. They were issued between 2014 and 1980. Some of the most recent documents rescinded that dated from the Obama administration have to do with special education funding and ensuring that preschool children with disabilities are taught alongside preschool children without disabilities when appropriate.
- Rep. Bobby Scott of Virginia, the top Democrat on the House education committee, blasted the decision, calling it "the latest in a series of disturbing actions taken by the Trump Administration to undermine civil rights for vulnerable Americans." Scott said in a statement that some of the guidance being rescinded related to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act had "focused on critical clarifications of the regulations required to meet the needs of students with disabilities and provide them a free, appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment."
Read the list of all rescinded documents here.
DEVOS SCRAPS SPECIAL EDUCATION GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS: The Education Department's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services on Friday said it rescinded 72 documents that provide guidelines on special education policy and issues because they're "outdated, unnecessary, or ineffective." Kimberly Richey, acting assistant secretary of OSERS, said that the 72 documents had been scrapped to help fulfill President Donald Trump's February executive order aimed at cutting back on regulations. Caitlin Emma has more.
- Most of the rescinded guidelines are housed under the Office of Special Education Programs. They were issued between 2014 and 1980. Some of the most recent documents rescinded that dated from the Obama administration have to do with special education funding and ensuring that preschool children with disabilities are taught alongside preschool children without disabilities when appropriate.
- Rep. Bobby Scott of Virginia, the top Democrat on the House education committee, blasted the decision, calling it "the latest in a series of disturbing actions taken by the Trump Administration to undermine civil rights for vulnerable Americans." Scott said in a statement that some of the guidance being rescinded related to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act had "focused on critical clarifications of the regulations required to meet the needs of students with disabilities and provide them a free, appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment."
Read the list of all rescinded documents here.
HB 7069 (Education Conforming Bill)
Senator Contact Information Print Format
June 13 - HB 7069 is on the Governor's desk.
As you are probably aware by now, HB 7069 was delivered to the Governor last evening. The Governor and Speaker of the House Corcoran are on a tour of Florida and were in Miami today. Both still deny that a deal was struck and the Governor’s office will neither confirm nor deny that he will be signing HB 7069 in Orlando on Thursday. All that is said is that he is reviewing the Bill and has 15 days to act on it.
The phone number and e-mail link to the Governor’s office is below if you would like to share with anyone:
Governor’s office (850)488-7146 and e-mail: http://www.flgov.com/contact-gov-scott/email-the-governor/
Here are some articles from today:
Central Florida School Districts ask Scott to Veto Education Bill
http://www.clickorlando.com/education/school-districts-slam-florida-education-bill
Controversial Education Conforming Bill HB 7069 in Gov. Rick Scott’s Hands
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/gradebook/controversial-education-conforming-bill-hb-7069-in-gov-rick-scotts-hands/2327083
Lawmakers Send Scott Controversial Education Bill
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/education/school-zone/os-education-bill-7069-charters-testing-schools-20170613-story.html
Governor, House Speaker Take a Victory Lap to Tell Florida, “Look What we did!”
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article155918169.html
Lane: Legislative Session Didn’t Quite Earn Victory Lap
http://www.news-journalonline.com/news/20170613/lane-legislative-session-didnt-quite-earn-victory-lap
June 12
As you know, the Special Legislative Session ended and, although there was discussion about HB 7069, no changes were made to it. As of this afternoon, it has not reached the Governor’s desk.
Below are two recent articles, one is a recap of the session and the other is an article that says the Governor will sign HB 7069 on Thursday in Orlando. Note:Not confirmed by the Governor’s Office.
There is still time to ask the Governor to veto HB 7069:
call the Governor’s office (850)488-7146 and e-mail: http://www.flgov.com/contact-gov-scott/email-the-governor/
Senate backs off defunding controversial schools bill, not wanting conflict with House
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/state-politics/article155194319.html
Sources: Governor to sign HB 7069 in Orlando on Thursday
http://floridapolitics.com/archives/239895-sources-governor-sign-hb-7069-orlando-thursday
The phone number and e-mail link to the Governor’s office is below if you would like to share with anyone:
Governor’s office (850)488-7146 and e-mail: http://www.flgov.com/contact-gov-scott/email-the-governor/
Here are some articles from today:
Central Florida School Districts ask Scott to Veto Education Bill
http://www.clickorlando.com/education/school-districts-slam-florida-education-bill
Controversial Education Conforming Bill HB 7069 in Gov. Rick Scott’s Hands
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/gradebook/controversial-education-conforming-bill-hb-7069-in-gov-rick-scotts-hands/2327083
Lawmakers Send Scott Controversial Education Bill
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/education/school-zone/os-education-bill-7069-charters-testing-schools-20170613-story.html
Governor, House Speaker Take a Victory Lap to Tell Florida, “Look What we did!”
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article155918169.html
Lane: Legislative Session Didn’t Quite Earn Victory Lap
http://www.news-journalonline.com/news/20170613/lane-legislative-session-didnt-quite-earn-victory-lap
June 12
As you know, the Special Legislative Session ended and, although there was discussion about HB 7069, no changes were made to it. As of this afternoon, it has not reached the Governor’s desk.
Below are two recent articles, one is a recap of the session and the other is an article that says the Governor will sign HB 7069 on Thursday in Orlando. Note:Not confirmed by the Governor’s Office.
There is still time to ask the Governor to veto HB 7069:
call the Governor’s office (850)488-7146 and e-mail: http://www.flgov.com/contact-gov-scott/email-the-governor/
Senate backs off defunding controversial schools bill, not wanting conflict with House
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/state-politics/article155194319.html
Sources: Governor to sign HB 7069 in Orlando on Thursday
http://floridapolitics.com/archives/239895-sources-governor-sign-hb-7069-orlando-thursday
From AASA June 8
This month's second advocacy challenge--all about funding for Title II of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)--is a little different than earlier versions (all available here). For the second June 2017 advocacy challenge, we are asking our members to participate in a coordinated national Title II Day of Action (on June 14) to advocate for the policies that could significantly impact school leaders, principals, teachers, other educators and the students they serve.
Particular to state executives, a role for your state association: The call to action includes a Thunderclap which will make your organization’s participation in the event on social media quick and easy. Just click the link above, sign your organization up for what social media outlets you would like to participate in, and then on June 14 at 10:00 am (ET) a prerecorded message will be sent out for you on whatever outlets you signed up for.
AASA is pleased to partner with AFSA, NAESP, NASSP, Learning Forward, ASCD, and New Leaders for a National Day of Action. This is in response to President Trump's proposed budget for FY18. You can read AASA's full response and analysis on the blog.
3 Simple Ways to Participate in Advocacy on June 14
As always, please let me know if you have any questions.
You can access this call to action from the Advocacy Challenge webpage or on the blog.
Noelle
Noelle Ellerson Ng
Associate Executive Director, Policy & Advocacy
AASA: The School Superintendents Association
1615 Duke Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
(c)703-774-6935
[email protected]
Twitter: @Noellerson
This month's second advocacy challenge--all about funding for Title II of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)--is a little different than earlier versions (all available here). For the second June 2017 advocacy challenge, we are asking our members to participate in a coordinated national Title II Day of Action (on June 14) to advocate for the policies that could significantly impact school leaders, principals, teachers, other educators and the students they serve.
Particular to state executives, a role for your state association: The call to action includes a Thunderclap which will make your organization’s participation in the event on social media quick and easy. Just click the link above, sign your organization up for what social media outlets you would like to participate in, and then on June 14 at 10:00 am (ET) a prerecorded message will be sent out for you on whatever outlets you signed up for.
AASA is pleased to partner with AFSA, NAESP, NASSP, Learning Forward, ASCD, and New Leaders for a National Day of Action. This is in response to President Trump's proposed budget for FY18. You can read AASA's full response and analysis on the blog.
3 Simple Ways to Participate in Advocacy on June 14
- Send a prewritten letter to Congress: Use our easy advocacy tool to send this pre-drafted letter to Congress about the importance of Title II, Part A of ESSA, which is critical to providing professional development for school leaders and educators. (You can also send a pre-loaded letter using NASSP's Legislative Action Center, which is open to non-NASSP members.)
Dear ____,
I am writing as a constituent, as a leader in my school, and as a leader in my community to strongly urge you to provide full funding for the Title II, Part A program in FY 2018.
As a school leader, I was encouraged when Congress passed the bipartisan Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) in 2015. ESSA provided new opportunities for schools to invest in principal leadership and support for our previously overlooked profession. In fact, many states have wisely already taken advantage of the optional 3 percent state set aside of Title II, Part A funds for school leadership specific activities.
Title II already saw a drastic reduction this year when $249 million was cut from the program for FY 2017. Despite these already harmful cuts, President Trump has proposed to completely eliminate funding for Title II, Part A in his FY 2018 Budget Request. This is not only dangerously shortsighted, it would severely disrupt many states’ ESSA implementation plans, and hamper our efforts to increase student achievement.
Tile II, Part A provides critical funding to states for the purposes of preparing, training, recruiting, and retaining high-quality teachers, principals, assistant principals, and other school leaders. Given the unique role that principals play in ensuring that our nation's teachers are supported, and that our students have a high-quality learning experience through high school in order to be college and career ready, principals must be afforded the necessary opportunities for professional learning and growth as they work to improve teaching and learning in all schools.
I am extremely disheartened by President Trump's proposal and urge you to fully restore funding for Title II, Part A in FY 2018.
Thank you for your consideration, and for your support of our nation's educators and students.
Sincerely,
[Educator’s name] - Tweet #TitleIIA, #FundTitleIIA @[Senators and Reps]
Here are some sample tweets you can use:- #TitleIIA allows states and districts to improve teaching and school leadership through professional learning
- #TitleIIA is critical for achieving the goals around equity and excellence in ESSA.
- Fund #TitleIIA to support increased student achievement by promoting strategies to positively affect teacher and principal effectiveness.
- Fund #TitleIIA, it is critical for school leaders and principals to do their jobs effectively, cuts threaten this ability
- Millions of school leaders depend on #TitleIIA to improve schools and instruction in the classroom, fully #FundTitleIIA
- #ESSA allows states to use 3% of #TitleIIA funds for PD for principals, cutting decreases the chances to seize this opportunity
- Fund #TitleIIA and give state #ESSA plans a chance to work!
- Call your members in Congress! Unsure who your Representative is? – Visit the Find Your Representative tool. Unsure what to say? - Here is a script you can use when speaking to staff member of the office.
- I am a [insert title and organizational affiliation] and I am calling to urge Senator/Representative [insert name here] to restore cuts made to Title II, Part A of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which provides principals, school leaders and all educators with specific professional development opportunities. It also provides critical funding to states for the purposes of preparing, training, recruiting, and retaining high-quality teachers, principals, assistant principals, and other school leaders.
- I am extremely concerned about the deep cuts made to Title II, Part A and believe this will severely disrupt many states’ ESSA implementation plans, and hamper our efforts to increase student achievement.
- Given the unique role that principals play in ensuring that our nation's teachers are supported, and that our students have a high-quality learning experiences in order to be college and career ready, principals must be afforded the necessary opportunities for professional learning and growth as they work to improve teaching and learning in all schools.
- I urge Senator/Representative [insert name] to restore Title II, Part A funding.
As always, please let me know if you have any questions.
You can access this call to action from the Advocacy Challenge webpage or on the blog.
Noelle
Noelle Ellerson Ng
Associate Executive Director, Policy & Advocacy
AASA: The School Superintendents Association
1615 Duke Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
(c)703-774-6935
[email protected]
Twitter: @Noellerson
The Special Session of the Legislature begins in the morning. The news of the day is centered around the articles below. Sen. Garcia, one of the three Senators that broke party lines to vote against HB7069 in the Senate, is asking Senators to fix HB 7069 in the Special Session.
Above are the names and phone numbers of the Senators. As you will note in the articles below, it would take a two-thirds vote of both chambers to add it to the agenda so it is important to communicate with members of the House as well.
Miami-Dad Republican: I’m ‘not comfortable’ with more K-12 funding without changing HB 7069
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/nakedpolitics/2017/06/miami-dade-republican-i-cant-support-more-k-12-funding-without-changes-to-hb-7069.html
Will Legislature’s special session end with compromise or more confusion?
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/state-politics/article154658984.html
In private calls, superintendents tell Scott they still want H.B.7069 axed
http://www.politico.com/states/florida/story/2017/06/05/in-private-calls-superintendents-tell-scott-they-still-want-hb-7069-axed-112523
These HB 7069 updates are also posted on the FASFEPA website.
The Special Session of the Legislature begins in the morning. The news of the day is centered around the articles below. Sen. Garcia, one of the three Senators that broke party lines to vote against HB7069 in the Senate, is asking Senators to fix HB 7069 in the Special Session.
Above are the names and phone numbers of the Senators. As you will note in the articles below, it would take a two-thirds vote of both chambers to add it to the agenda so it is important to communicate with members of the House as well.
Miami-Dad Republican: I’m ‘not comfortable’ with more K-12 funding without changing HB 7069
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/nakedpolitics/2017/06/miami-dade-republican-i-cant-support-more-k-12-funding-without-changes-to-hb-7069.html
Will Legislature’s special session end with compromise or more confusion?
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/state-politics/article154658984.html
In private calls, superintendents tell Scott they still want H.B.7069 axed
http://www.politico.com/states/florida/story/2017/06/05/in-private-calls-superintendents-tell-scott-they-still-want-hb-7069-axed-112523
These HB 7069 updates are also posted on the FASFEPA website.
June 5
The Special Session is scheduled to begin Wednesday in Tallahassee. We are receiving conflicting signals on whether the Legislature will address the elimination of the Title I language in HB 7069 during the special session. There is an indication that one of the Senators might introduce legislation to eliminate the Title I language.
In case you or anyone you know would like to call and/or e-mail your Senator, attached you will find the names of all of the Senators, their district number, the counties they represent, their phone numbers, and website addresses to e-mail.
Below are a few articles that have appeared since the last update on Friday.
A Bold New Takeover of Florida’s Public Schools
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/a-bold-new-takeover-of-floridas-public-schools_us_5932239ae4b062a6ac0acfeb
Yes to bigger budget but still no on HB7069, public school advocates say
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/yes-to-bigger-budget-but-still-no-on-hb-7069-public-school-advocates-say/2326040
Scott to Veto Ed Funding But Fate of HB7069 Still Unknown
http://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/post/scott-veto-ed-funding-fate-hb-7069-still-unknown#stream/0
St. Johns County education leaders concerned that state support for charter schools means less support for public schools
http://staugustine.com/local-news/news/2017-06-05/st-johns-county-education-leaders-concerned-state-support-charter-schools
Palm Beach Co. education leaders remain critical of funding bill ahead of special session
http://www.wptv.com/news/region-c-palm-beach-county/west-palm-beach/palm-beach-co-education-leaders-remain-critical-of-funding-bill-ahead-of-special-session
Another backroom deal stokes distrust in Florida’s Legislature
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/state-politics/article154247089.html
Opinions around Florida: So, about that special session
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/opinions-around-florida-so-about-that-special-session/2326204
Tallahassee gets Special Session, the public gets the bill
http://saintpetersblog.com/joe-henderson-tallahassee-gets-special-session-public-gets-bill/
Rick Scott agrees to sign $83 billion state budget after reaching deal with Corcoran, Negron
http://www.tbo.com/news/politics/stateroundup/rick-scott-agrees-to-sign-the-824-billion-state-budget-after-reaching-deal/2325966
Scott and the Speaker strike a special session deal
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/politics/power-lunch/sfl-scott-and-the-speaker-strike-a-special-session-deal-20170602-htmlstory.html
The Special Session is scheduled to begin Wednesday in Tallahassee. We are receiving conflicting signals on whether the Legislature will address the elimination of the Title I language in HB 7069 during the special session. There is an indication that one of the Senators might introduce legislation to eliminate the Title I language.
In case you or anyone you know would like to call and/or e-mail your Senator, attached you will find the names of all of the Senators, their district number, the counties they represent, their phone numbers, and website addresses to e-mail.
Below are a few articles that have appeared since the last update on Friday.
A Bold New Takeover of Florida’s Public Schools
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/a-bold-new-takeover-of-floridas-public-schools_us_5932239ae4b062a6ac0acfeb
Yes to bigger budget but still no on HB7069, public school advocates say
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/yes-to-bigger-budget-but-still-no-on-hb-7069-public-school-advocates-say/2326040
Scott to Veto Ed Funding But Fate of HB7069 Still Unknown
http://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/post/scott-veto-ed-funding-fate-hb-7069-still-unknown#stream/0
St. Johns County education leaders concerned that state support for charter schools means less support for public schools
http://staugustine.com/local-news/news/2017-06-05/st-johns-county-education-leaders-concerned-state-support-charter-schools
Palm Beach Co. education leaders remain critical of funding bill ahead of special session
http://www.wptv.com/news/region-c-palm-beach-county/west-palm-beach/palm-beach-co-education-leaders-remain-critical-of-funding-bill-ahead-of-special-session
Another backroom deal stokes distrust in Florida’s Legislature
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/state-politics/article154247089.html
Opinions around Florida: So, about that special session
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/opinions-around-florida-so-about-that-special-session/2326204
Tallahassee gets Special Session, the public gets the bill
http://saintpetersblog.com/joe-henderson-tallahassee-gets-special-session-public-gets-bill/
Rick Scott agrees to sign $83 billion state budget after reaching deal with Corcoran, Negron
http://www.tbo.com/news/politics/stateroundup/rick-scott-agrees-to-sign-the-824-billion-state-budget-after-reaching-deal/2325966
Scott and the Speaker strike a special session deal
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/politics/power-lunch/sfl-scott-and-the-speaker-strike-a-special-session-deal-20170602-htmlstory.html
Past Posts
The FASFEPA Board feels it is important to keep its members informed on HB 7069 (Education Conforming Bill). Below are some recent media releases related to HB 7069.
As of today, the Bill has not been sent to Gov. Scott. Once Gov. Scott receives the Bill, he will have 15 days to take action, which means 1) sign it and it becomes Law, or 2) veto it, or 3) take no action and at the end of the 15 days, it will become Law.
1) If you are interested in communicating with Gov. Scott on the action to be taken on HB 7069, below is the best address to use to e-mail him. If you agree with the language in the Bill, then you would ask him to sign it. If you are concerned that the Bill is inequitable and removes the ability to make decisions on Title I allocations at the district-level, hurting our most at-risk schools, then you would ask him to veto it:
[email protected]
2) The following are some articles that have recently appeared regarding the Bill. The first three are about what charter schools are doing to encourage their parents to request the Governor to sign the Bill. These articles appeared in the media very soon after an article saying that the requests to the Governor were 3 to 1 in favor of a veto. At the end of the articles are the two Calls to Action from the Florida PTA.
Charter schools to parents: Write to Gov. Scott, get volunteer hours
https://miamiherald.relaymedia.com/amp/news/politics-government/state-politics/article151507657.html
Parent-led Florida Education Coalition Urges Governor Scott to Sign HB 7069
http://capitalsoup.com/2017/05/16/parent-led-florida-education-coalition-urges-governor-scott-sign-hb-7069/
Gov. Scott on school bill: “If people want to get involved, get involved.”
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/nakedpolitics/2017/05/gov-scott-on-schools-bill-if-people-want-to-get-involved-get-involved.html
3) Other articles and news clips:
(New - 5/25) What is Gov. Scott hearing now on HB 7069? It’s a toss-up.
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/what-is-gov-scott-hearing-now-on-hb-7069-its-a-toss-up/2325089
(New - 5/25) What are Floridians telling Rick Scott now about the schools bill? It’s mixed.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article152521354.html
5/24 Orlando Sentinel: Scott Maxwell Column: FL School Bill is a Jam-Packed Scam
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/opinion/os-florida-schools-veto-rick-scott-maxwell-20170523-story.html
(5/24 Politico: TrainWreck Education Bill Could Put Putnam, Corocoran on Crash Course
http://www.politico.com/states/florida/story/2017/05/24/train-wreck-education-bill-could-put-putnam-corcoran-on-crash-course-112293
Politico: In feud w/ House over tourism $, Scott hints at big education vetoes
http://www.politico.com/states/florida/story/2017/05/15/scott-hints-at-big-education-vetoes-112059
Our view: Scott should veto harmful education bill
http://www.tcpalm.com/story/opinion/editorials/2017/05/18/our-view-scott-should-veto-harmful-education-bill/329708001/
Some of your legislators are profiting at the expense of public education
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/news-columns-blogs/fabiola-santiago/article151418277.html
Floridians are weighing in on public schools bill. Most want a veto.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/state-politics/article151456657.html
Florida School Boards Association joins chorus seeking HB 7069 veto
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/gradebook/florida-school-boards-association-joins-chorus-seeking-hb-7069-veto/2324045
Superintendents unite around call for HB 7069, k-12 budget veto
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/superintendents-unite-around-call-for-hb-7069-k-12-budget-veto/2324120
What about the rural communities, Mr. Chairman?
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/gradebook/what-about-the-rural-communities-mr-chairman/2324087
Polk County School Board prepares for harsh budget realities
http://www.theledger.com/news/20170516/polk-county-school-board-prepares-for-harsh-budget-realities
Florida Gov. says controversial education bill crafted in “secret”
http://www.firstcoastnews.com/news/local/gov-scott-faced-with-controversial-education-bill/440230423
Veto schools bill and “starvation-level” K-12 spending, critics urge Gov. Scott
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/state-politics/article150662907.html
Parents and educators urge Governor Scott to veto HB 7069
https://thefloridasqueeze.com/2017/05/15/parents-and-educators-urge-governor-scott-to-veto-hb-7069/
Defend public schools & veto HB 7069!
https://www.change.org/p/rick-scott-defend-public-schools-veto-hb-7069
Urgent: Tell Gov. Scott to veto HB 7069 and the state budget!
http://feaactioncenter.org/act/veto-the-budget/
Photos: Polk School District officials speak out against HB 7069
http://www.theledger.com/photogallery/LK/20170517/PHOTOGALLERY/517009987/PH/1?start=2
Education advocates put pressure on Scott to veto funding bill
http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2017/05/17/education-advocates-put-pressure-on-scott-to-veto-funding-bill
Florida House Speaker Richard Corcoran misleads about education legislation negotiations
http://www.politifact.com/florida/statements/2017/may/17/richard-corcoran/florida-house-speaker-richard-corcoran-misleads-ab/
HB 7069 Education Train Bill Needs to be Vetoed
http://lwveducation.com/hb-7069-education-train-bill-needs-to-be-vetoed/
$410M schools bill headed to Gov. Scott, after barely surviving Senate vote
http://www.tbo.com/news/politics/stateroundup/house-passes-massive-419m-schools-bill-senate-yet-to-vote/2323178
Our view: A turbulent session for education
http://www.news-journalonline.com/opinion/20170510/our-view-turbulent-session-for-education
In Tampa, public officials blast education bill, urge Rick Scott veto
http://saintpetersblog.com/tampa-public-officials-blast-education-bill-urge-gov-scott-veto/
Scott faces increasing pressure on school funding
http://staugustine.com/local-news/news/2017-05-18/scott-faces-increasing-pressure-school-funding
Central Florida educators call on Gov. Scott to veto budget
http://www.wesh.com/article/central-florida-educators-call-on-gov-scott-to-veto-budget/9865404
FL ed establishment cries school spending increase “starvation-level…budget”
http://eagnews.org/fl-ed-establishment-cries-school-spending-increase-starvation-level-budget/
Seminole County calls on governor to veto education bill
http://www.baynews9.com/content/news/baynews9/news/article.html/content/news/articles/cfn/2017/5/17/seminole_county_call.html
PolitiFact Florida Finds Tallahassee “Transparency” Rather Opaque
http://news.wgcu.org/post/politifact-florida-finds-tallahassee-transparency-rather-opaque
School Groups Want Scott To Veto Education Bill
http://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/post/school-groups-want-scott-veto-education-bill#stream/0
Bad budget for education deserves veto by governor
http://www.pressreader.com/usa/the-palm-beach-post/20170517/281603830396988
For Gov. Rick Scott, “fighting” could mean vetoing entire state budget
http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/stateroundup/for-gov-rick-scott-fighting-could-mean-vetoing-entire-state-budget/2324817
National charter group lauds HB 7069
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/gradebook/national-charter-group-lauds-hb-7069/2324216
Schools to Gov. Scott: Veto “bad” education bill
http://www.wtsp.com/news/local/schools-to-governor-scott-veto-bad-education-bill/440217553
The FASFEPA Board feels it is important to keep its members informed on HB 7069 (Education Conforming Bill). Below are some recent media releases related to HB 7069.
As of today, the Bill has not been sent to Gov. Scott. Once Gov. Scott receives the Bill, he will have 15 days to take action, which means 1) sign it and it becomes Law, or 2) veto it, or 3) take no action and at the end of the 15 days, it will become Law.
1) If you are interested in communicating with Gov. Scott on the action to be taken on HB 7069, below is the best address to use to e-mail him. If you agree with the language in the Bill, then you would ask him to sign it. If you are concerned that the Bill is inequitable and removes the ability to make decisions on Title I allocations at the district-level, hurting our most at-risk schools, then you would ask him to veto it:
[email protected]
2) The following are some articles that have recently appeared regarding the Bill. The first three are about what charter schools are doing to encourage their parents to request the Governor to sign the Bill. These articles appeared in the media very soon after an article saying that the requests to the Governor were 3 to 1 in favor of a veto. At the end of the articles are the two Calls to Action from the Florida PTA.
Charter schools to parents: Write to Gov. Scott, get volunteer hours
https://miamiherald.relaymedia.com/amp/news/politics-government/state-politics/article151507657.html
Parent-led Florida Education Coalition Urges Governor Scott to Sign HB 7069
http://capitalsoup.com/2017/05/16/parent-led-florida-education-coalition-urges-governor-scott-sign-hb-7069/
Gov. Scott on school bill: “If people want to get involved, get involved.”
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/nakedpolitics/2017/05/gov-scott-on-schools-bill-if-people-want-to-get-involved-get-involved.html
3) Other articles and news clips:
(New - 5/25) What is Gov. Scott hearing now on HB 7069? It’s a toss-up.
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/what-is-gov-scott-hearing-now-on-hb-7069-its-a-toss-up/2325089
(New - 5/25) What are Floridians telling Rick Scott now about the schools bill? It’s mixed.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article152521354.html
5/24 Orlando Sentinel: Scott Maxwell Column: FL School Bill is a Jam-Packed Scam
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/opinion/os-florida-schools-veto-rick-scott-maxwell-20170523-story.html
(5/24 Politico: TrainWreck Education Bill Could Put Putnam, Corocoran on Crash Course
http://www.politico.com/states/florida/story/2017/05/24/train-wreck-education-bill-could-put-putnam-corcoran-on-crash-course-112293
Politico: In feud w/ House over tourism $, Scott hints at big education vetoes
http://www.politico.com/states/florida/story/2017/05/15/scott-hints-at-big-education-vetoes-112059
Our view: Scott should veto harmful education bill
http://www.tcpalm.com/story/opinion/editorials/2017/05/18/our-view-scott-should-veto-harmful-education-bill/329708001/
Some of your legislators are profiting at the expense of public education
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/news-columns-blogs/fabiola-santiago/article151418277.html
Floridians are weighing in on public schools bill. Most want a veto.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/state-politics/article151456657.html
Florida School Boards Association joins chorus seeking HB 7069 veto
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/gradebook/florida-school-boards-association-joins-chorus-seeking-hb-7069-veto/2324045
Superintendents unite around call for HB 7069, k-12 budget veto
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/superintendents-unite-around-call-for-hb-7069-k-12-budget-veto/2324120
What about the rural communities, Mr. Chairman?
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/gradebook/what-about-the-rural-communities-mr-chairman/2324087
Polk County School Board prepares for harsh budget realities
http://www.theledger.com/news/20170516/polk-county-school-board-prepares-for-harsh-budget-realities
Florida Gov. says controversial education bill crafted in “secret”
http://www.firstcoastnews.com/news/local/gov-scott-faced-with-controversial-education-bill/440230423
Veto schools bill and “starvation-level” K-12 spending, critics urge Gov. Scott
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/state-politics/article150662907.html
Parents and educators urge Governor Scott to veto HB 7069
https://thefloridasqueeze.com/2017/05/15/parents-and-educators-urge-governor-scott-to-veto-hb-7069/
Defend public schools & veto HB 7069!
https://www.change.org/p/rick-scott-defend-public-schools-veto-hb-7069
Urgent: Tell Gov. Scott to veto HB 7069 and the state budget!
http://feaactioncenter.org/act/veto-the-budget/
Photos: Polk School District officials speak out against HB 7069
http://www.theledger.com/photogallery/LK/20170517/PHOTOGALLERY/517009987/PH/1?start=2
Education advocates put pressure on Scott to veto funding bill
http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2017/05/17/education-advocates-put-pressure-on-scott-to-veto-funding-bill
Florida House Speaker Richard Corcoran misleads about education legislation negotiations
http://www.politifact.com/florida/statements/2017/may/17/richard-corcoran/florida-house-speaker-richard-corcoran-misleads-ab/
HB 7069 Education Train Bill Needs to be Vetoed
http://lwveducation.com/hb-7069-education-train-bill-needs-to-be-vetoed/
$410M schools bill headed to Gov. Scott, after barely surviving Senate vote
http://www.tbo.com/news/politics/stateroundup/house-passes-massive-419m-schools-bill-senate-yet-to-vote/2323178
Our view: A turbulent session for education
http://www.news-journalonline.com/opinion/20170510/our-view-turbulent-session-for-education
In Tampa, public officials blast education bill, urge Rick Scott veto
http://saintpetersblog.com/tampa-public-officials-blast-education-bill-urge-gov-scott-veto/
Scott faces increasing pressure on school funding
http://staugustine.com/local-news/news/2017-05-18/scott-faces-increasing-pressure-school-funding
Central Florida educators call on Gov. Scott to veto budget
http://www.wesh.com/article/central-florida-educators-call-on-gov-scott-to-veto-budget/9865404
FL ed establishment cries school spending increase “starvation-level…budget”
http://eagnews.org/fl-ed-establishment-cries-school-spending-increase-starvation-level-budget/
Seminole County calls on governor to veto education bill
http://www.baynews9.com/content/news/baynews9/news/article.html/content/news/articles/cfn/2017/5/17/seminole_county_call.html
PolitiFact Florida Finds Tallahassee “Transparency” Rather Opaque
http://news.wgcu.org/post/politifact-florida-finds-tallahassee-transparency-rather-opaque
School Groups Want Scott To Veto Education Bill
http://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/post/school-groups-want-scott-veto-education-bill#stream/0
Bad budget for education deserves veto by governor
http://www.pressreader.com/usa/the-palm-beach-post/20170517/281603830396988
For Gov. Rick Scott, “fighting” could mean vetoing entire state budget
http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/stateroundup/for-gov-rick-scott-fighting-could-mean-vetoing-entire-state-budget/2324817
National charter group lauds HB 7069
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/gradebook/national-charter-group-lauds-hb-7069/2324216
Schools to Gov. Scott: Veto “bad” education bill
http://www.wtsp.com/news/local/schools-to-governor-scott-veto-bad-education-bill/440217553
|
Press Release |
May 12, 2017
After much deliberation, the Florida PTA has decided to ask Governor Scott to veto conforming bill 7069. This was not an easy decision. We have great respect for our legislators and the difficult decisions that they are tasked with making. Many have worked alongside PTA this year to draft and move positive legislation through committees and we thank them for their support and partnership.
While there are many good policies in this bill like sensible testing reform, parent-friendly testing reports, daily recess, and important early learning initiatives, conforming bill 7069 still leaves too many of our most vulnerable children behind. Unfortunately, late added provisions will diminish parent engagement, lessen restrictions on charter school accountability, limit the ability for school districts to turnaround struggling schools, and reduce district flexibility to prioritize Title 1 funding.
We must fight for the transparency that was promised. We must fight for the right of every parent to make an informed choice. We must fight to ensure that parents have a seat at the decision-making table.
Those who know our 120 year history and long-standing commitment to child advocacy and volunteering will understand why Florida PTA members are calling for the Governor to veto 7069 and find a better solution for our kids.
|
Call to Action |
Please call or email Governor Scott TODAY and ask him to veto HB 7069. This bill will have a devastating effect on public education and will leave many of our most vulnerable children behind. The Legislature needs to fund public education and allow elected school board members to do their job.
Take action now!
Click the link below to log in and send your message:
https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/8VlxShYhcAfjBGm-Pbj7ug
or
The link to The Alliance for Public Schools’ advocacy page on the all4schools. org website. This page provides all the tools you need to contact the Governor in multiple ways. If you click the call button from your phone, it will take you directly to the number to the Governor’s office:
http://all4schools.org/advocacy-dashboard/
Take action now!
Click the link below to log in and send your message:
https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/8VlxShYhcAfjBGm-Pbj7ug
or
The link to The Alliance for Public Schools’ advocacy page on the all4schools. org website. This page provides all the tools you need to contact the Governor in multiple ways. If you click the call button from your phone, it will take you directly to the number to the Governor’s office:
http://all4schools.org/advocacy-dashboard/