[CSPS] state board withdraws from Natl Assc of State Boards of Ed

[Cecelia Hawkins]

Equality Texas - Press Release

For Immediate Release - November 18, 2005

Austin, TX - Ignoring Texas taxpayers' values and their official 
responsibilities, the Texas State Board of Education (SBOE) voted Thursday 
to withdraw from the National Association of State Boards of Education 
(NASBE) in order to pursue an out-of-step radical agenda.

The NASBE is the only national group that helps strengthen state board 
leadership in education policymaking. The SBOE voted to give up Texas' seat 
in America's boardroom for education because they could not get along.

Putting the board's opinion before Texas school children, SBOE member Terri 
Leo stated, "They're (NASBE) taking policy decisions that I believe the 
majority of our board members here don't agree with." Leo was referring to a 
NASBE seminar on bullying and violence prevention that included a 
presentation about students being bullied because of their sexual 
orientation.

In another act of failed leadership, the Texas SBOE followed the example of 
Governor Perry and Speaker Tom Craddick and just quit on Texas children 
because they cannot get along or find an easy solution.

"Making our schools safe environments for learning should be the goal of all 
school boards, all school districts, and all school administrators", said 
Chuck Smith, Equality Texas Deputy Director. "Making our schools safe 
environments for learning is everyone's agenda", Smith said.

"It is a reality that students are harassed and bullied based on their 
actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity. It is also a 
reality that students are harassed and bullied based on other 
characteristics, such as physical appearance, weight and socioeconomic 
status. If we truly care about making our schools a safe learning 
environment, then any and all characteristics that are the source of 
harassment and bullying should be included in safe schools policy."

"Responsible leaders know how to find consensus and solutions when our 
children are at stake," Smith said.