Hello SAISD Parents,
This past week a parent leaked a recording of a conversation with our Governor’s top aid in which they were talking about school funding. During this conversation, he said that our Governor, Gregg Abbott, would push for school vouchers to help fund private schools. The next day Governor Abbott made his State Address to go over his top concerns about this legislation. The Governor didn’t speak about the recording; instead, he talked about what he wanted for the people of Texas.
First, he mentioned that our Community Colleges are training students and preparing them for the workforce, which is wonderful. Then he stated that if our Community Colleges keep offering training to help people become a part of Texas’ growing need for skilled workers they would receive incentives. The following remark he said was “Public Schools play an essential role in our state,” and they educate future entrepreneurs, scientists, and leaders.” Which I found confusing because he’s still talking about school vouchers. So, is his mind controlled by those who donate big money? As he moved forward, he stated that teachers and public schools have received the highest pay raises and funding this year.
Next, he declared an emergency to end COVID restrictions forever and that no government agencies can make us get vaccinated or wear masks. He believes that this will help us from having to close schools and businesses. The idea that if COVID returns and we have to return to wearing masks makes me wonder how many teachers are willing to return to their classrooms.
Once again, he’s trying to make Parents believe that the “Parental Bill of Rights” is a rabbit that he pulled out of a top hat like a great magic trick. But parents, all of these rights can be found in Education Code Title 2. Public Education, Subtitle E. Students and Parents under Chapter 26. Parental Rights and Responsibilities. I encourage all parents to look up these rights and know they have been in place for a long time, and if you want more information, you can find a breakdown at this website at Parent and Student Rights – ATPE https://atpe.org › Common-Legal-Questions. The only right our Texas politicians have taken away from our students, teachers, and parents is their ability to discuss actual historical events in their classrooms, all due to HB3979.
Lastly, in his State Address, he discussed how he would cut property taxes, border issues, gun laws, and school safety. If anyone would like to read the State Address, go to https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott delivers-2023-state-of-the-state-address.
If anyone has any questions or concerns, please email me at lena.lopez@saobserver.com
Have a Blessed Week,
Lena Lopez
