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Naples Rep's New Law Lets Any Resident Challenge Classroom Materials

Photo: Wikimedia Creative Commons

A new Florida law has captured headlines across the country. It allows any resident of a Florida county to challenge the classroom materials used in that county’s public schools, regardless of whether they are the parent or guardian of a student. The bill was drafted by Naples’ Rep. Byron Donalds, who joins Gulf Coast to talk about why he feels the new law is necessary.

Also joining the show is Brandon Haught, an author, high school science teacher, and communications director for Florida Citizens for Science. He says the new law targets the teaching of evolution and climate change, with ramifications that could touch on history classes and what books are allowed in libraries, arguing the new law can confuse students and see Florida science education fall behind. 

Matthew Smith is a reporter and producer of WGCU’s Gulf Coast Live.
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