To the editor:

I have submitted the following letter to Lee County School Board Members:

I am a resident of Bonita Springs, a registered voter (who votes), and have started attending Lee County School Board meetings now that I am fully retired.

I am writing to you today with a sense of urgency and profound concern regarding the proposed “Policy #3281, Personal Property of Instructional Staff.” After reviewing the details of this policy, it is clear that its implications extend far beyond the simple regulation of personal items within the school environment. This policy, as it stands, is not only unnecessary but also a potential legal quagmire, an enforcement nightmare, and a direct affront to the principles of educational diversity and freedom of expression.

First and foremost, let’s address the elephant in the room: Policy #3281 blatantly exceeds state rules and opens the door wide to litigation, along with the legal costs that accompany such disputes. Are we so flush with funds that we’re looking for ways to squander resources on avoidable legal battles? The policy’s vague language and broad sweep set the stage for subjective interpretation and inconsistent enforcement, practically inviting legal challenges.

And why the rush to pass this policy? What imminent threat does a teacher’s personal coffee mug or a motivational poster or a banner teaching positive values pose that necessitates such hasty action? This policy seems to be: a) a solution in search of a problem, prioritizing censorship over the genuine needs of our educational system, and/or b) rushing to pander to those who fear information and education that doesn’t suit their political views.

Speaking of enforcement, who exactly has been tasked with policing the personal spaces of district staff? Will we now divert valuable educational resources to fund the “Personal Item Patrol?” One can only imagine the absurdity of administrators creeping around with rulers, protractors to measuring viewing angles and magnifying glasses, to determine whether an item is too political and/or shocking a student. The prospect is as ludicrous as it is wasteful.

Moreover, I must question the origin and motivation behind this policy. Who authored this proposal — names, please: We are the Sunshine State! — and what exactly are they hoping to achieve? Is the goal truly to foster a neutral educational environment, or is it to sanitize and control the narrative to which our students are exposed? The timing and nature of this policy raise serious questions about its underlying intentions. It doesn’t pass the smell test.

Finally, and most importantly, the Lee County School Board should be focusing its efforts on education and the broadening of young minds, not on censoring the diverse views and expressions that enrich the learning experience. Our students deserve to be prepared for a world that is far from black and white, where critical thinking and exposure to a wide range of perspectives are essential for success.

In light of these concerns, I strongly urge you to either dismiss Policy #3281 outright or, at the very least, table it for further review and consideration. What’s the rush? Even DeSantis now acknowledges that book-banning rules were POORLY thought through and are being abused by individuals with a political agenda vs. the education and well-being of our children.

Our district’s resources, attention, and efforts should be directed towards enhancing the quality of education we provide, not restricting the (limited) freedom of expression of our dedicated instructional staff.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your prompt and thoughtful response.”

Harrison Tao

Bonita Springs