A Hernando County School Board meeting attracted significant attention as teachers and community members gathered to express their views on an investigation surrounding a fifth-grade teacher who showed a Disney movie in her classroom. Jenna Barbee, a teacher at Winding Waters K-8, faced an investigation after Hernando County School Board member Shannon Rodriguez reported her to the Florida Department of Education.
The controversy centers around the 2022 movie "Strange World," which features an openly LGBTQ character in a central role. According to USA Today, the school board and state department of education launched an investigation, while Barbee maintains that the film was related to an Earth science lesson and did not contain inappropriate content.
Community Outcry and Education Policies
According to Naples Daily News, hundreds of teachers, students, and community members packed the school board meeting, utilizing the platform to address not only the Disney movie controversy but also broader education policies. The Parental Rights in Education Act, also known as the "Don't Say Gay" law, received criticism from attendees who expressed concerns over the restrictions it places on discussions surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity. Multiple individuals registered to speak during public comment, highlighting worries about the high number of teacher vacancies within the school district. One high school student stated that teachers are afraid to voice their opinions for fear of losing their jobs.
During the meeting, a high school student urged the school board to reconsider their stance, emphasizing that the presence of LGBTQ representation in classrooms or Disney movies does not equate to indoctrination or brainwashing. Attendees argued that current policies failed to provide adequate protection or address the diverse needs of students. They called for a more inclusive and supportive environment that recognizes the importance of representation and challenges harmful stereotypes.
Although Barbee's case was not directly addressed on the meeting agenda, public commenters linked it to other agenda items, such as book bans and personnel recommendations. Lisa Masserio, president of the Hernando Classroom Teachers' Association, highlighted the resignation of 33 educators from the district, with twice as many resignations since May 2022. According to FOX 13 News, the political environment and politically motivated attacks have a negative impact on educator morale, making many wonder about their future in the field. Some attendees argued that banning books and limiting certain films curtails student learning and removes important representation from classrooms.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Backlash
While the school board closed its investigation, the state's inappropriate conduct investigation into Barbee remains open. Barbee confirmed that the Disney movie was part of the curriculum and had signed permission slips from parents for all students. However, the school district claimed that Barbee violated administrative protocols by not seeking prior approval before showing the film. Critics of education policies, including the "Don't Say Gay" law, expressed concerns about the limitations it places on teachers and their ability to connect with students.
Barbee's case has garnered national attention, prompting petitions and a public backlash against school district officials. A petition calling for the removal of board member Shannon Rodriguez has garnered nearly 24,000 signatures on Change.org. Additionally, three Hernando County legislators called for the resignation of Hernando County School District Superintendent John Stratton, citing concerns over poor decision-making, a lack of transparency, and a disregard for parental rights.
The Florida School Board meeting became a focal point for teachers, students, and community members to voice their concerns over the Disney movie controversy and education policies in Hernando County. Attendees emphasized the need for inclusive classrooms, representation, and an education system that fosters an environment of acceptance and support. The ongoing investigation into Jenna Barbee's case and the wider discussions surrounding education policies highlight the complexities and challenges faced in creating an inclusive learning environment for all students.
