Public Review and Input for Textbooks

Posted July 15, 2024

The science textbooks currently under consideration for adoption at Gulf District Schools are now available for public review. You can access them in the Instructional Services computer lab, located at 150 Middle School Road, Port St. Joe, FL 32456.

The review period ends Tuesday, July 23rd.

The Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) has policies in place that allow for public review and input on textbooks before they are adopted for use in schools. This process is designed to ensure transparency and community involvement in the selection of educational materials.

Public Review Process:

  1. Notification and Access: The FLDOE typically provides notification about the textbooks under consideration. These materials are made available for public review. This could be through online access or at designated physical locations.
  2. Feedback Period: There is a specific period during which the public can review and provide feedback on the textbooks. This feedback can be submitted online, through mail, or at public hearings.
  3. Public Hearings: In some cases, public hearings are held where community members can express their opinions and provide feedback in person.
  4. Consideration of Feedback: The feedback from the public is taken into consideration by the textbook adoption committees, which include educators and subject matter experts. This committee reviews all comments and evaluates the textbooks against the state’s educational standards.
  5. Final Decision: Based on the committee’s recommendation and the public feedback, the state board of education makes the final decision on whether to adopt the textbooks.

This process is part of Florida’s broader commitment to involving the community in educational decisions and ensuring that the materials used in classrooms are both effective and reflective of the values and needs of the community. If you need specific details about the current textbook review process or how to participate in it, the FLDOE’s official website or your local school district’s office would be the best sources for the most current and detailed information.