First Up: Manny Diaz Jr. proposes rule on mentioning sexual orientation, gender identity in classrooms

Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. is proposing a new rule of professional conduct for teachers in line with the state’s Parental Rights in Education Act passed last year, dubbed “Don’t Say Gay” by its critics. A hearing is set for 9 a.m. on April 19, in the Florida State Capitol’s Cabinet Meeting Room. The law gave state officials till June 30 of this year to update rules and standards. 

The proposed language says Florida educators “shall not intentionally provide classroom instruction to students in grades 4 through 12 on sexual orientation or gender identity unless such instruction is either expressly required by state academic standards … or is part of a reproductive health course or health lesson for which a student’s parent has the option to have his or her student not attend.”

The text of the law says, “Classroom instruction by school personnel or third parties on sexual orientation or gender identity may not occur in kindergarten through grade 3 or (in higher grades) in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards.” An explanation in the notice reads, “The commissioner may pursue disciplinary action against the license of an educator who violates the principles.” 

This legislative session, lawmakers are looking to expand the law with a bill (HB 1223) that would extend the prohibition on teaching about sexual orientation or gender identity through 8th grade, and restrict how preferred pronouns can be used in classrooms.

– Jim Rosica