Please, make your voice heard at the next School Board meeting:
November 4th at 6:00pm (rally outside at 5pm)
2855 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33966

Click here to send a pre-filled email to the Lee County School Board and Superintendent. https://linkly.link/2FD7c

Please, send a typed/written letter as soon as possible (you can use the words from the pre-filled email or write your own letter, be sure to include your contact info. Bring a copy of the letter to both rallies):
Lee County Public Education Center
Attn: School Board Members & Superintendent
2855 Colonial Blvd.
Fort Myers, FL 33966

Please, call the superintendent and school board members as soon as possible (you can read the pre-filled email aloud to them): 239-334-1102

Every American has a right to free speech as enshrined in the First Amendment of the Constitution. This fundamental right applies to all citizens, including educators, who dedicate their lives to fostering knowledge and critical thinking in our youth. It's crucial that we protect their rights to express themselves freely outside the classroom on their personal pages, off school premises, and during non-school hours. 

In Lee County, FL, educators have faced increasing scrutiny and even disciplinary action based on the opinions they share in their private capacities. This not only undermines their freedoms but also creates an environment of fear and censorship that can stifle genuine discourse. Educators must be empowered to express their views without the looming threat of professional retaliation. They should not be penalized for what they say or believe outside of school as long as it does not incite violence or disrupt school operations. 

Censorship of personal opinions outside the classroom, off school grounds, and during non-school hours erodes the very foundation of the First Amendment. Our educators are not just teachers—they are also citizens, entitled to the same Constitutional protections as every American.

This petition seeks to urge the school district in Lee County, FL, to establish clear policies safeguarding educators' rights to free speech when engaging in public discourse outside of their professional settings. Policies should affirm that any personal expressions made off-campus, during non-working hours, and on personal platforms, are protected under the First Amendment, provided they are lawful and non-disruptive.

Furthermore, to ensure these protections are honored, we call on the school board to implement training programs for administrators to better understand the limits and protections of educators' speech rights. A transparent reporting mechanism should be established for any grievances filed regarding free speech violations to guarantee the impartiality of investigations.

Promoting such policies not only supports the rights of educators but also enriches the educational environment by attracting and retaining passionate and engaged teachers in our community. Together, let's stand up for the constitutional rights of those who nurture the minds of future generations. Sign this petition to ensure that the voices of Lee County's educators are heard and respected.