A Georgia school board voted to terminate teacher Katie Rinderle on August 17 for reading a book about gender identity to her 5th-grade students at Due West Elementary school in Atlanta. The decision has sparked controversy, leading to the initiation of a GoFundMe campaign to support Rinderle as she seeks new employment. As of August 19, the campaign has raised around $14,000 out of a $50,000 goal.
The GoFundMe page explains that Katie Rinderle became a target of political tactics and local school board decisions. The school district reportedly changed rules in a way that favored their agenda, while silencing minority board members. The campaign asserts that Rinderle won’t be silenced, and her situation shouldn’t be used to intimidate other educators or hinder inclusive education for students.
GoFundMe campaign has raised around $14,000 out of a $50,000 goal (Source: GoFundMe)
Rinderle’s situation revolves around her reading of “My Shadow is Purple,” a book by Scott Stuart aimed at teaching children about gender fluidity. According to CNN, the Georgia school board found this action in violation of policies against introducing “divisive concepts.”
A parent’s complaint in March 2023 prompted the investigation. School superintendent Chris Ragsdale recommended Rinderle’s termination, citing a recent State censorship law in Georgia that restricts discussing issues related to race and gender identity in classrooms.
@scott.creates
And the book was purchased AT THE SCHOOL at a book fair.
♬ original sound – Scott Stuart
Despite a tribunal panel of retired educators deeming termination too harsh, the Cobb County school board voted 4-3 in favor of firing Rinderle. The board asserted their commitment to maintaining classrooms focused on education.
BREAKING NEWS: The Cobb County Board of Education votes 4-3 to reject a district tribunal recommendation and fire teacher Katie Rinderle for reading a book about gender identity, “My Shadow Is Purple”, to her fifth grade class. #gapol pic.twitter.com/AimJ06hVb0
— Rahul Bali (@rahulbali) August 18, 2023
Randy Scamihorn, a board member who voted for Rinderle’s termination, stated that his decision was based on his constituents’ desire for classrooms free of controversial topics.
In response, Rinderle claimed that she read “My Shadow is Purple” after a student vote, suggesting that she shouldn’t be punished for addressing a topic her students were interested in. Rinderle’s legal representation mentioned the possibility of appealing the board’s decision.
Categories: News
Source: vothisaucamau.edu.vn
