Teaching science: State Sen. Dennis Baxley, R-Ocala, files a bill that would require school districts to teach “controversial theories and concepts" of science "in a factual, objective and balanced manner.” The bill would also allow local districts to adopt their own academic standards as long as they're as vigorous as the state's. In 2008, when the current standards were adopted, Baxley, then the executive director Christian Coalition of Florida, wanted the state to "leave the door open a little bit" for consideration of theories other than evolution about how life on Earth developed. Orlando Sentinel.
Homeschooling bill: A bill is filed that would limit the amount of information parents would have to provide to their school district if they intend to homeschool their child. The bill, filed by Sen. Dennis Baxley, R-Ocala, would require only the student's name, birth date and address. Some districts ask for more. redefinED.
Test waivers: Miami-Dade County School Superintendent Alberto Carvalho says he will ask the state to exempt students displaced by hurricanes from taking exams that are required for high school graduation. Education Week.
Tax bill and charter schools: Charter school operators warn that the tax bill under consideration in Congress would eliminate a variety of tax-exempt programs the companies use to borrow money to build schools. “This is devastating to charter schools, which often struggle to find space and lack the amenities of district schools,” says National Alliance President and CEO Nina Rees. Without the tax breaks, she says schools will have to take money from instruction to use for construction. The 74.
