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Election analysis from 4 PE Leadership continues with Public Testimony at the Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) School Board meeting on Thursday, November 9th. Read the remarks and watch the video clip below: Good evening, I am Rick Clayton on behalf of 4 Public Education. I don’t need to be a fortune-teller to interpret the results of this week’s election . I can read the tea leaves. Chaos, transphobia, anti-CRT and lack of civility were trounced by the voters, by the parents, in favor of inclusivity, in support for teachers, and excellence, hand in hand with equity for all. This Board has stood up to crude, personal, vile attacks in order to protect our students and our public school culture for 4 years. For some of you, this will be the last time I will speak at this podium. On behalf of 4 Public Education . … I want to say thank you . Through this storm, Fairfax has remained at the forefront of excellence in education. Of course, we still have work to do. I hope those who have been most critical of your work will be true to their word of wanting to “listen to parents”-as parents have spoken loudly and clearly. Parents want all kinds of books in their library- they told you this on Tuesday. Parents want all kinds of truthful history taught- they told you this on Tuesday. Parents want trans kids protected and listened to- they told you this on Tuesday. Parents want teachers supported-emotionally and financially- they told you this on Tuesday. Parents want civility when we do disagree, not performative politics- they told you this on Tuesday. Parents have sent a clear message. I hope everyone, now, will listen to them and, ….as one school board candidate said in another county “Make school board meetings boring again.” I, and the rest of our group 4 Public Education , look forward to working with the new Board next year. View the video testimony here:

Pundits cast Virginia’s Tuesday general elections as a referendum on abortion rights. It was more than that. Further down the ballot those votes also sent a strong message to those trying to disrupt public education: listen to parents. Parents who came out to vote in Fairfax, Loudoun and even Spotsylvania, the epicenters of vitriol and fantasy, voted with a resounding “no” to candidates who focused on anti-CRT, book bans and transphobia. Parents overwhelmingly voted for moderate candidates campaigning on safe schools, feeding hungry kids and supporting our teachers. After almost four years of vile accusations of racism, pedophilia, incompetence and more, voters in Fairfax rejected the lies and returned Rachna Sizemore Heizer, Melanie Meren, Ricardy Anderson and Karl Frisch to the School Board, along with a sweep of all pro-public education newcomers. Rachna Sizemore Heizer said “Today, Fairfax County resoundingly rejected the GOP's divisive politics and relentless attacks on our schools, students and staff, and stood strong in support of public education. It has been a tough four years on the school board, but we've stood strong knowing the majority of Fairfax County shared our values of an excellent education in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Now on to work making our great schools even better for every child.” Spotsylvania County, with one of the most “toxic” school boards in the Commonwealth, flipped from MAGA extremist to centrist, teacher-focused sanity. Carol Medawar, a newcomer to politics, and part of the wave that flipped the Spotsylvania school board, stated “I'm just so happy for the students, families, and educators who really get to breathe a sigh of relief for this race. It's a huge flip on the Spotsy school board.” In Loudoun County, the genesis of the politization of public education, pro-public school supporters held their ground in a clear referendum on Youngkin’s plan to dismantle public schools, drive out teachers and humiliate trans-kids. The acrimony and chaos of the last four years drove every member of the prior school board out of the race. However, the new board, with all new members, will maintain a strong pro-public school majority, despite Youngkin’s concerted, last minute attempt to influence the race. According to Loudoun public school advocate Andrew Pihonek, “a brand new school board will be a breath of fresh air for many in Loudoun.” Albermarle-Charlottesville followed the same trend as Loudoun, Fairfax, and Spotsylvania, rejecting candidates who tried to re-write our history and ban books. If Glenn Youngkin and his minions truly want to listen to parents, now is their chance. Parents across the Commonwealth, in their first opportunity since his election to send a clear message, have rejected fear-mongering, white-washing, transphobia, sabotage and lack of civility. The question is no longer will we listen to parents, but will he? As Carol Medawar, successful Spotsylvania candidate, pleaded a few weeks ago, “Let’s make school board meetings boring again.” Sign up for the 4 Public Education weekly newsletter for more analysis, news, calls to action, events and more in support of public education!

October 26, 2023 School Board meetings have become ground zero for the culture wars, so 4 Public Education is introducing a new blog called “School Board Matters” for 2023-24. It will include analysis and links to video, agenda, and votes that affect you and your student(s), including links to primary source documents to support involvement in your student’s experience and education. We hope this will provide better access to and understanding of the Fairfax County School Board, including their powers and duties, as governed by the Code of Virginia . Although this blog will primarily focus on Fairfax County, we will share school board meeting reports from around the state, when possible. The 10/26/23 Fairfax County School Board (FCSB) meeting began with the South Lakes High School Treble Ensemble singing the National Anthem–their voices rising to the rafters. After voting on business discussed during a closed meeting, the FCSB voted on those items before acknowledging multiple scout troops in the audience who were working on their Citizenship badge. Attending a school board meeting is a great way to satisfy badge requirements and learn about governmental processes. The FCSB shared four proclamations , which were poignant, but purposefully abbreviated by the FCSB for shorter meetings (yay!): West Springfield High School Maintenance Building Naming in honor of Bob Little who served as an assistant softball coach and contributed to the community. National Activities Month in honor of contributions and benefits students experience through participation in after school activities. Celebrate Red Ribbon Week theme "Be Kind to Your Mind. Live Drug Free”--a call to action to speak out in support of healthy choices. Disability History and Awareness Month. Did you know that over 28,000 and approximately 16% of FCPS students receive special education services? Public Input There were close to three times the number of speakers at this meeting than earlier in the month, including: A student and two adults who asked for greater attention to be paid to the Palestinian human rights crisis and support of Arab students at this time. Two students and an adult advocated for men’s volleyball to be a varsity sport in FCPS high schools. The video presentation was exceptional! Four speakers, including FCFT leaders David Walrod and Emily Vanderhoff, advocated for the 2% salary increase for teachers. They noted that a salary increase would go a long way to prioritize recruitment and retention of teachers, although more is needed. The president of SEPTA advocated for the 2% salary increase and she asked that they include Instructional and other school assistants. She also asks that student attendance be untied from accreditation because it is punitive for medically fragile students who may not be able to access in-person school. A parent shared remarks covering how FCPS is not supporting families whose children have complex medical conditions, particularly with the new attendance policies and unsupportive attitudes. One parent expounded on her rejection of the 2017 Fairfax County One Fairfax policy approach and, seemingly, indicated that systemic racism is not a problem in FCPS. Two speakers shared medical disinformation and made dehumanizing comments about students. One of these two speakers rooted her statements in religious beliefs and quoted violent scripture (note: she referred to Luke 17:22, but the quote about millstones and drowning actually comes from Matthew 18:6). On a personal note, I am deeply saddened that people make such statements about transgender students, as similar discriminatory statements made about any other demographic group of students is clearly unacceptable. Transgender and other LGBTQIA student rights are covered under federal and state anti-discrimination law; therefore, their civil rights must be protected. I have many more thoughts, but none are fit to print. Unfortunately, there was another verbal altercation after the meeting among adults. Since tensions are high after a school board meeting, it is suggested that those with opposing views on highly charged issues seriously consider whether others are receptive to their advances. Here are some ways to determine if someone does not want to talk: They are visibly upset. They ask you to leave them alone…three times. They yell at you to leave them alone. It is also possible to observe body language. If people are receptive to talking, they may smile and engage with you. If they are visibly angry, they are not prepared to engage. Thus, concludes my Ted Talk on how to win friends and communicate with people at School Board meetings. School Board Business Strategic Plan : They will share small presentations on the strategic plan each month. This week is goal 3 “ Academic Growth and Excellence .” Focusing on successful completion of Algebra 1 by 8th grade, which has proven to put “students on a trajectory of more advanced math.” They are piloting this project in some local schools to monitor its effectiveness– hearing what the students had to say about the program was enlightening. Amy Hunter, an FCPS Coordinator, said that we should reframe the discussion with students, for example, “Instead of a teacher saying I don’t know if you are ready ... .If you want to take this class, here are things you should do to be successful.” Dr. Reid shared an illuminating presentation on Annual Pass Rates and Accreditation Outcomes that put FCPS success in context of the Commonwealth of Virginia, showing that FCPS consistently exceeds Virginia performance. All 195 of Fairfax County schools are accredited, which is quite an accomplishment. Student Representative Matters : Ms. Karim shared student concerns and solutions that she had shared at a recent High School principal association meeting: The need for appropriate student prayer rooms and how schools can be considerate of student prayer needs The utility of a checklist used by the Woodson administration to establish a student-driven program that is supported by the US Department of Justice, involves a student group known as SPIRIT to address student issues. It ensures students are heard and valued. How crucial Portrait of a Graduate programs can be, if applied accurately, for student life beyond school. She asked that Career Day be expanded beyond Woodson High School. Student Advisory Council meetings with Fairfax County leaders engaged over student to counselor ratio, food waste, inconsistency in grading policies, etc. The SEALS organization continued to bridge the gap in STEM in Title 1 schools, and have expanded to two more schools. She asked the FCSB to support centralized grading systems, since schools have different grading splits, which impacts college acceptance and students’ success. She asked that FY 2024 budget state aid be used to pay employees to sponsor clubs and other after school activities. Otherwise, there is no incentive and some clubs lack sponsors. Superintendent Matters : Dr. Reid completed her conversations with the community and employees this week. TJ applications are open right now–the last day to begin the application is November 15th. See full details here . Board Items: The FCSB voted to revise the process about optional forms on executive expectations process indefinitely . The FCSB unanimously (11-0) agreed to let the next FCSB make a decision regarding this. Dr. Reid presented about “Executive Expectations: Relationships with Families and Community Stakeholders,” with an extensive list of all community engagement (in person and online) from the last year, including that she attended 87 community meetings and provided special accommodations, including child care, handouts, and translations. Close to an hour of significant discussion of engagement measures ensued. The School Board unanimously approved a 2% raise for teachers, bus drivers, principals, instructive assistants, and all FCPS employees. The total cost of this raise is $30.5 million, but the state provides only about 5.3 million (17%), so FCPS needed to raise $25.2 million for this adjustment. The FCSB continues to try to address the lopsided state support. The FCSB approved all Consent Agenda items. Due to the late hour, board members gave brief Board reports . If you would like to know about future FCSB meetings, please go to BoardDocs and click on the "Meetings" tab.

Even before he was elected, Virginia Gov. [Glenn] Youngkin focused his attention on harmful, fabricated fibs about public education. He allied with far right activists to push regressive policies, particularly those that would strip funding, respect, equity, and stability from public schools in an ongoing attempt to privatize the funding of public education while decimating our public schools. Thankfully, many of the bills that targeted those goals were stopped by the Virginia Senate during the 2023 General Assembly before they could become law. Youngkin’s 2021 Gubernatorial win is attributed to his successful use of culture wars , fake narratives, and manufactured outrage over claims that parents were being denied their rights, despite a wealth of evidence to the contrary . He continues to employ this strategy to influence the upcoming election in November, when all seats in the Virginia General Assembly are up for election, despite being informed that many of his claims are unfounded. For example, Governor Youngkin claimed that student performance on the nation’s report card (National Assessment of Education Progress) was “ catastrophic ,” and that Virginia’s students are doing worse than their peers in other states. The truth is that Virginia students performed as well or better than students nationwide on the [NAEP], and Virginia’s public schools are rated fourth out of all the states, based on reviews by both Forbes and the World Population Review . The Governor seems impervious to suggestions he stop making those claims, probably because he sees a political advantage to disinformation being shared. Nevertheless, he was told his claims are based on a flawed analysis of student test scores and are patently false. Northern Virginia is in Youngkin’s crosshairs for attacks because that part of the state tends to reject the validity of Youngkin’s culture war issues, just as they rejected him in his gubernatorial election. Most residents view public education as a cornerstone of democracy and support the tenant of the One Fairfax policy that all residents deserve an equitable opportunity to succeed. It is the region’s resistance to Youngkin’s fomenting of outrage over manufactured crises, efforts to undermine public education, and his targeting of the most vulnerable students that attracts the governor’s ire. Recently, The Youngkin administration targeted public school systems in Northern Virginia with three investigations , with threats of even more. The first investigation started the day Attorney General [Jason] Mijares took office, when he commissioned a grand jury to investigate the handling of a student sexual assault in the Loudoun County Public School system. Although the grand jury recommended no charges against the school system and found significant issues with the sheriff’s investigation related to the assault, the grand jury report was used by the Youngkin administration to make unrelated charges. In January 2023, Miyares initiated another investigation at the Governor’s request , involving a delay of National Merit Commended Certificates at Fairfax High Schools. He questioned whether the certificates were purposefully withheld from Asian American students, based on numerous allegations from a single reporter who had openly admitted her involvement in Yougnkin’s 2021 election success . However, the courts rejected Miyares’ request for a subpoena for the school board records in that case. The claims of civil rights violations is particularly ironic because Miyares decimated the Office of Civil Rights , yet is using that office and the Virginia Human Rights Administration to pursue these expensive, misguided investigations. Miyares is investigating whether the revised admissions policy at TJ discriminates against Asian students, even though the Supreme Court is currently deciding whether to take up the issue. Currently, there is a struggle between Northern Virginia public school boards and the Youngkin administration over the revised model policies for transgender students . Northern Virginia counties were the first to refuse to adopt the revised policy because it rolled back existing protections for transgender students, which were in compliance with anti-discrimination laws. Miyares insisted those school boards were required to follow the new policy for transgender students, and that their refusal was a willful violation of state policy . Some suggested that a showdown between the governor and FCPS was coming, and Miyares suggested that parents can and should take legal action against school districts that defy the governor’s policy, and that his office “ will be monitoring all litigation and will be prepared to participate if appropriate. ” Such strong-armed tactics worked in Virginia Beach. Although they initially resisted the governor’s revised policy, when faced with litigation the Virginia Beach School Board revised their policy to fall in line with the governor’s model policy. Legal experts say the model policies are for guidance only. Fairfax County hasn’t changed from their original rejection of the new policy, and there is no indication they will change. Dr. Michelle Reid, Superintendent of Fairfax County Public Schools, responded that the district is within the law by rejecting the policy, and that the FCPS system is in compliance with FCPS Regulation 2603, federal law, and anti-discrimination policies. Recently, Youngkin made an unhinged claim that the Fairfax County Public School system has a “ maniacal focus on equal outcomes ,” consistent with his anti-woke campaign that successfully elected him in 2021. Does he feel that fomenting outrage over manufactured crises will give him a political advantage? It worked for him in 2021, and soon we will know if it works for him in the critical election in November, when all legislative and many school board seats are up for election. Reprinted from Virginia Dogwood .

A recent poll by the Washington Post and George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government revealed factors that may influence voters in the upcoming election. The poll showed that 70% of registered voters say that education is “very important” in their voting decisions for Virginia Senators and Delegates this November. However, only 30% of those polled were critical of their K -12 public schools. According to Mark J. Rozell, Dean of the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University, the results of the poll were “striking” because they refute Governor Youngkin’s claim that Virginia’s public schools are failing. Despite Youngkin’s attacks on schools, most parents are happy with their children’s schools. Another interesting revelation from the poll is that the transgender student policy is less important to voters. Only 34% of those polled say that issue will influence their vote. Interestingly, more disapprove of how Youngkin is handling transgender issues (43%) than approve (37%), and 61% feel schools are not doing enough to protect transgender students, are doing about enough, or don’t have an opinion on the issue. Those polled said they had more trust in Democrats handling transgender policies (50%) than Republicans (33%). Another interesting result is that parents are more concerned about transgender issues than students are, because students tend to be supportive of their transgender classmates. These results suggest that Governor Youngkin’s insistence that school boards implement his revised transgender student will not influence the outcome of the election…at least not in the way he is hoping. The Washington Post quoted Dean Rozell’s conclusions from the poll. “It may be heartening to many public educators who feel that they’ve been under attack by a particularly vocal group on the right to learn that most parents think that the public schools are behaving responsibly and seriously trying to deal with issues of learning loss and making sure that their children get a good education…I think it’s a good story to tell about public education.”

School Board meetings have become ground zero for the culture wars, so 4 Public Education is introducing a new blog called “School Board Matters” for 2023-24. It will include analysis and links to video, agenda, and votes that affect you and your student(s), including links to primary source documents to support involvement in your student’s experience and education. We hope this will provide better access to and understanding of the Fairfax County School Board, including their powers and duties, as governed by the Code of Virginia . Although this blog will primarily focus on Fairfax County, we will share school board meeting reports from around the state, when possible. The 10/12/23 Fairfax County School Board meeting began with some confusion and conflict, but smoothed out over time. Ms. Laura Jane Cohen asked for a moment of silence after the attack on Israel and for a moment of silence in honor of those who were endangered, lost their lives, and or lost family members and friends in Israel, Gaza, and neighboring communities. School board members took pains to be brief during the proclamations, but they still tried to give full acknowledgement: National Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation –One in four of our students is of Hispanic Heritage who have ancestry from a variety of countries and cultures. These cultures in turn enrich our own school community. Many shared the good work of the Hispanic Educators Association Indigenous People's Day/Native American Heritage Month Proclamation –Ms. Cohen read quotes from indigenous people, including Irwin Morris “Everyday is indigenous people’s day. Every day the sun rises and we are still here to celebrate.” LGBTQIA History Month Proclamation –In light of current attacks on the LGBTQIA community, most of the School Board had something to say, much of which was personal, thoughtful, and inspirational. Listen and understand. Principals, Administrators, and Administrative Assistants Month Proclamation . Ms. Derenak Kaufax details their impact and work in the schools. So many leaders got shout-outs from the board! Public Input Two student advocates spoke, both of whom touched on the theme of protecting the environment. A freshman from Chantilly High School asked that the school board continue, or even increase, their commitment to clean energy to mitigate climate change. She identified that it is hard for the students to focus on school and tests when they are worried about their futures, in light of pollution and a warming earth. A Senior from Madison High School explained the problems with the move to Chromebooks by FCPS. He shared that it is environmentally unsound because they have a shorter life than the old laptops, but also they are less effective, unsafe due to batteries that overheat, and are of poor quality. 4 Public Education’s own Cheryl Binkley said that it is “our stories that give meaning to what we do” while some are trying to suppress stories, especially if they are from some groups. She shares Oedipus’s tale which is as vividly explicit and challenging as those told today that are being banned and censored. Outside of those present for proclamations, it was a smaller than usual crowd. Few had signed up to speak, but even fewer showed up. Other speakers spoke to: The deplorable condition of Woodson High School’s ball fields that are unsafe and sometimes unusable. A request to change the start times of middle schools, which currently violates the needs of students, and is taking a toll on their physical and emotional health. It could have a profound impact on so many families. (Note: there have been many efforts to this effect. Any parent of a middle schooler can tell you the nightmare of a 6:35am bus ride.) An appreciation for those on the school board and administrative team who have supported Jewish students and families, recognizing that they have friends and family who have died or are being held hostage. She asks them to continue to combat antisemitism, consult with the JCRC, and be accountable to students who experience antisemitism on a regular basis. Palestine and her family’s experiences. School Board Business Academic Matters : Dr. Reid’s presentation demonstrated how FCPS outcompetes Virginia and the world every year on SAT scores, which seem to have stabilized from COVID drops. This year, FCPS has ensured that every student can take the SAT by adding free SAT testing for Seniors, thus FCPS has increased participation while Virginia’s SAT participation has dropped. All of this counters a current narrative from Richmond that FCPS is failing–see the 4 Public Education blog for more information. Dr. Reid also shared free PSAT and SAT preparation tools available to all students. Student Representative Matters : Ms. Karim focused on the issue of renaming of W.T. Woodson High School. She said that, in 2023, it is our duty to separate ourselves from a segregationist mindset, students overwhelmingly support a name change, and a name change is aligned with the Strategic Plan of creating a healthy school environment. Superintendent Matters : Dr. Reid shared her conversations with the community and employees. There will be more in the future, including: community conversation on the 24th (Madison HS) and 25th (Liberty MS), and employee conversation 16th (Hughes MS) and 19th (Langley HS). She shared that they have rolled out salad bars at 198 schools this year and that cross country has started at most middle schools across Fairfax. Dr. Reid also gave her recommendations regarding the renaming of W.T. Woodson High School, including relevant policy . There was significant discussion (nearly two hours!) of Global Executive Expectations . Clearly, school board members felt passionate about specific items during the discussion, but the nature of the discussion was lost on most parents who were waiting the vote on the renaming of W.T. Woodson High School. Reports from those watching at home indicated that it was “quite painful to watch.” That being said, sometimes it is the minutiae that really matter, which is why we need people on the School Board who understand the importance of good policy and care about specifics. Name change vote for WT Woodson High School Finally, the moment most of the remaining audience (six of us) were waiting for….(drum roll)....the board voted unanimously to rename W.T. Woodson High School. Ms. McLaughlin spoke to the subject and shared the next steps which can be found at https://www.fcps.edu/renaming-woodson : A public online feedback form (open until 12 pm on November 9th) An October 23rd community meeting at Woodson High School Cafeteria “A” (6:30 - 7:30pm). Pre-register for planning purposes. An October 24th Public Hearing at Luther Jackson Middle School (5:30 pm). Sign up to speak through October 23. On November 9th, the School Board will vote on new name for WT Woodson HS A number of news sources covered the Woodson High School renaming vote, including the Washington Post , FFX Now , ABC 7 News , Northern Virginia Magazine , and DC News Now . The meeting ended at about 11:40 pm. Other Northern Virginia school board meetings A 10/10/23 Fairfax County School Board work session covered Strategic Governance and Community Schools (3:40). The 10/12/23 Arlington County School Board meeting was covered by an Arlington parent. Public input was dominated by teachers sharing the devastating impact of a new health care system.

As you may know, book bans have been on the rise with requests to ban books at record high in 2022. Like you, 4 Public Education is concerned about the attacks on the 1st Amendment through censorship, thus, we are covering Banned Books week, October 1-7th, over multiple blogs. To kick off Banned Book Week, Maryland and Virginia congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Church held a festival of banned books entitled Unstoppable Stories that covered the joy of reading challenged books, stories of inclusion and celebration, and the current war on our libraries and beloved books. 4 Public Education was fortunate to participate in the Fairfax, Virginia session with close to 100 citizens. For 13 years, former Speaker of the House of Delegates Eillen Filler-Corn has been working toward a more welcoming, inclusive, and safe Virginia, thus she is concerned about the findings of the Pen America 2023 censored book report showing that book bans in public schools have increased by 33% in the last year. She reminds us to consider whose stories are being banned–primarily contested books have Black, Hispanic, and/or LGBTQIA characters–and questions why people want to censor such a rich tapestry of people and experiences. She agrees with the American Library Association’s (ALA) slogan “Let Freedom Read.” Stories are Unstoppable. They celebrate who we are out loud, despite attempts at censorship. They lift up our experiences, connect us across our differences and are how we learn to be better people. – Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Fairfax The panels offered amazing insight into the censorship assault on our schools and libraries that affect the education of students and safety of teachers and librarians. Recent censorship efforts started in the classroom, but have moved onto public libraries, where they are not only targeting books, but the very funding of public libraries, which are the core of many communities, particularly rural communities. Kelsey Lawrence, grassroots organizer for Save Samuels, said that when a small group of 53 extremists targeted her Front Royal, VA library, they drowned the library in over 800 forms asking to have 134 books removed, most of which they hadn’t even read. Every single one of those books contained LGBTQIA themes or characters and many had no sexual content at all. When these requests for removal were denied, they went after library funding, despite the library being the only resource for many in Warren county for books and other public services–355,000 people have relied on the library as a resource in the past year. Leon Van der Goetz, founder of NoVA Prism Center, shared that you should read the books: if they make you uncomfortable, sit with that, and ask yourself why the stories make you feel that way. Unfamiliarity of voices and experiences can be discomfiting, but learning about and respecting others’ lived experiences is part of life. To censor these books is the same as censoring the people behind the stories. Shari Henry, Director of Democracy and Community Impact at Urban Libraries, dashes the “porn in schools” mantra pushed by many activists, as there is not a book in school that meets the legal definition to be removed from a library. Parents are free to make their choice for their own family, but making the choice for other families infringes on fundamental freedoms. She also echoes earlier sentiments that rural libraries are more susceptible to funding cuts. Mary Pelicano, a retired librarian and American Library Association (ALA) advocate, said that the atmosphere of book challenges has changed. It used to be that an individual would fill out a challenge form after having read a book, but now people are arriving with long lists and pre-written forms to censor books they never even read. “Books are mirrors and windows”--they are how we build inclusive community, compassion, and empathy. Vee Vee Majesty, a Latina drag queen, questioned whether well-intentioned parents are being used as pawns by those with power and influence, particularly in a movement where only 11 adults have filed 60% of book challenges in 2021-21. In general, book challenges have begun with marginalized groups like people of color and the LGBTQIA community, but this is a slippery slope where the challenges are chipping away at our freedoms–Fahrenheit 451, a commonly banned book, outlines exactly what they are doing. Not only that, but the obsession with gender and gender identity ignores the humanity of each one of us–it amplifies differences among us, when we aren’t really that different on the inside. Finally, 4 Public Education attended only one of the breakout sessions, but it was a doozy! Lara Bury of Red Wine and Blue shared how everyone can get involved in an informed and respectful way by: Talking to neighbors and friends about the impact of banning books–remember 87% of people do not support banning books that discuss race! Sharing your concerns and tell your friends what you are doing. Personal stories often have more impact than sharing facts. Asking questions and empathizing with (not demonizing) others who may not 100% agree with you. Wearing “Banned Books” t-shirts or buttons to let others know what is happening. Thanking and supporting librarians and teachers. Check out and read banned books from libraries to show the community values them. Also, remember that parents can always prevent their own kids from accessing certain books, but every parent that wants their kids to develop critical thinking skills should have the right to have books available to their kids.

On October 10, 2023, 4 Public Education co-founder Vanessa Hall spoke at a hearing in support of the proposal to rename W. T. Woodson High School. The hearing was held at Luther Jackson Middle School in Falls Church, Virginia. Ms Hall, mother of two children who attend the high school, said “We must change the name of W.T. Woodson High School, because segregationist names should not grace our children’s schools…“I’ve heard people say, ‘We didn’t know who he was.’ Well, I’m here to say that generations of Black families who were prohibited from attending any high school in Fairfax County knew.” Of the nine public speakers, eight spoke in favor of renaming the school, including one parent who asked to change the mascot, as well, since the Cavaliers of Virginia, a local KKK chapter, was housed only a mile away from W.T. Woodson in a former FCPS school, which is now the Fairfax History Museum. A couple of speakers discussed potential names for the school. Why is Fairfax County looking to change the name of W.T. Woodson High School? Not only did W.T. Woodson support Massive Resistance, but he actively underfunded and undereducated Black students for three decades as Fairfax County Public Schools Superintendent from 1929-1961. There is significant evidence that he didn’t just follow orders from Governor Byrd in Richmond, but fully embraced segregationist beliefs as evidenced by news reports and a 1959 letter to the school board stating that the “order to desegregate schools is highly improper and infringes on human rights.” Tonight (10/12/23) the Fairfax County School Board will vote whether to rename Woodson after evaluating an online feedback form and resident public input from October 10, 2023. If the vote is yes, then the School Board will proceed with the renaming process and the Superintendent will present recommendations for a name which will begin a second round of public engagement including: An online feedback form (open from 10/18-11/1/23). A community meeting at Woodson High School on October 23rd from 7:30-8:30pm. A Public Hearing at Luther Jackson Middle School on October 24th beginning at 5:30 pm. Final action by the School Board on a resolution to rename the facility at the November 9th meeting. FCPS has a website where you can learn more about the process to rename W.T. Woodson High School.

After a recent school board meeting, I was distracted by a Fairfax GOP-endorsed school board candidate yelling at me, when her friend joined in by yelling, “You don’t know what banned means!” as she vigorously pointed to the word “banned” on my brand new yellow t-shirt. Fortunately, her companion pulled her away while I stood there confused: what the heck was she talking about? I’ve since learned that there is an extensive public relations campaign by far right groups and media to explain that the book bans we are worried about aren’t really book bans at all. Sounds crazy, right? One would think, but remember how well they were able to weaponize CRT to attack public schools and teachers? Whether you call them book bans, censorship, or violation of the First Amendment, here is the truth: Requests to ban books are at a record high in 2022. The 2022-23 school year has been marked to date by an escalation of book bans and censorship in classrooms and school libraries across the United States. PEN America recorded more book bans during the fall 2022 semester than in each of the prior two semesters. A large majority (70%!) of voters oppose book bans and have confidence in our libraries. In 2021-22, 11 adults filed 60% of the book challenges. Some states are going further than book bans, for example Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed a bill into law that would have created potential criminal liability for librarians had it not been blocked by a federal judge, “as a violation of free speech rights under the first amendment to the US constitution.” A website tied to Moms for Liberty is driving a substantial number of book banning efforts. Book challenges have always focused on marginalized groups, like people of color and the LGBTQIA community, but this is a slippery slope where these challenges are chipping away at freedoms of all people, whether they be Jewish, Muslim, Black, Hispanic, lower income, and/or women. Most school systems and libraries have processes to challenge books; however, current efforts to remove books from schools and libraries are making an end run around the rules and sometimes the law. Book challenges are overwhelming the resources of smaller libraries and requiring substantial resources at larger libraries, thus using taxpayer dollars that could otherwise be spent on services and education. Update on book bans in the 2022-2023 school year shows expanded censorship of themes centered on race, history, sexual orientation and gender. -PEN America Experts, Kasey Meehan and Jonathan Friedman, Ph.D. We know that Virginia is not immune from book banning efforts. For example a small group of 53 people targeted Samuels Library in Front Royal, VA to drown the library in 800+ forms asking to have 134 books removed, most of which they hadn’t even read. When this was unsuccessful, they targeted the funding of this library despite Samuels Library being a critical resource in an impoverished rural community. In Spotsylvania County, Virginia, two school board members said that explicit books should be burned and the school Superintendent pulled 14 books off of shelves. This same Superintendent added a loaded question to the ParentVue school portal requiring parents to answer whether they want their child “to have access to sexually explicit content in the school libraries.” So maybe that angry lady yelling and pointing at me had a point. This isn’t JUST about book bans. In fact, I would say that this is about censorship, silencing marginalized people, an effort to rewrite history, and an attack on our democracy. Although banned books week may have ended on October 7th, that doesn’t mean that our work is done. To make a difference, you can: Advocate against censorship and share your concerns with your elected officials, school board, school, and local library. Hold rallies in favor of the freedom to read or protest book removal. Talk to neighbors and friends about the impact of banning books–70% of voters oppose all book bans and 87% of people do not support banning books that discuss race. Ask questions and empathize with those who may not 100% agree with you. Thank and support librarians and teachers. Check out and read banned books from libraries. Start a group (a Banned Book book club perhaps?) to talk about this and other concerns. Or just wear a t-shirt. It may inspire others to anger or appreciation. Last week, I wore my Banned Book t-shirt to an education conference, and I found camaraderie among others wearing gorgeous banned book shirts, and admiration from even more wanting to know where I got my shirt. If you are interested, I bought it at a store that rhymes with Schmamazon–the shirt comes in 6 different colors and a choice of a woman’s or man’s fit.

We need to allow people to talk and we need to be open-minded. Our differences don’t need to divide us–they can bring us together. - Dr. Shedrick McCall, an Associate Tenured Professor of Psychology at Virginia State University On Saturday, Sept. 30, the public education forum “Raise Your Hand for Healthy School Environments” was held in Midlothian, VA. It was produced through a partnership between 4 Public Education and Virginia Public Education Partners (VPEP). VPEP is a grassroots group of parents, teachers, and others from across Virginia who are dedicated to supporting public education and protecting its funding and resources. It was formed in 2018 in response to the many attacks on public education on local, state and national levels. More than 100 participants from across Virginia attended the forum in person and virtually. Attendees included parents, teachers, school administrators, candidates for school boards and legislative offices, a state senator, and many education advocates. The program consisted of a keynote speech on Separation of Church and State and six panels that are available on the Virginia Public Education Partners YouTube page. The facts, stories, and recommendations from all of the panels will help any education and school safety advocate. Please watch here: Anti-LGBTQIA+ and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Rhetoric, Legislation and School Mental Health. Closing down the expansive world view of youth, impacts everyone, not just trans people who are uniquely and extremely impacted. School Safety, Gun Violence, and School Mental Health. Common myths about gun violence and school safety were addressed, and solutions to improve school mental health were discussed. Censorship, Book Banning, and the Effect on Student Learning. Panelists cover what and who are driving censorship and an anti-historical approach to world and VA history. They answer the questions: How does book banning and censorship suppress the truth? How does suppressing freedom to read suppress our democracy? Corporate Career and Technical Education (CTE). Panelists share surprising information about how corporations are driving the education conversation in the arena of CTE, while addressing best practices in CTE. Charter Schools, Lab Schools, Educational Vouchers, Tax Credits and Critical Education Funding. Panelists discuss the lack of accountability in an educational system that "robs from the needy and gives to the greedy. Misinformation, Astroturfing and Dark Money. Panelists share how dark money props up fake grassroots groups, and their role in disinformation about education. Information about the speakers, moderators and panelists can be found at https://www.raiseyourhandva.org/, as well as a list of sponsors. The entire event was recorded and can be accessed at https://www.raiseyourhandva.org/stream-the-event. One person with the right power can make space for others. Being that one ally will affect lives and you will never know it. Small things can be impactful. –Justin Sykes, School Mental Health Panelist