In Support of Elizabeth Tegtmeier

I support public education and our great teachers. My kids love school, and I am incredibly happy with the quality public education they are receiving.

A short while ago, I would not have dreamed that the Nebraska Department of Education and State Board of Education would suggest that it is necessary to teach kindergarteners names of genitalia, first graders about gender identity, third graders about sexual orientation, fifth graders about hormone blockers, and seventh graders about a*** sex.

Those were just some of the topics outlined in the first draft of the Health Standards, which were touted by the SBOE as being “age-appropriate.” Our local schools are excellent, but I am highly concerned about the upper echelons of education in Nebraska and their attempt to inject this nonsense in schools across the state.

Back in 2020, I emailed my representative on the state school board, Robin Stevens, asking where he stood on the Health Standards. He replied, “I’ve been asked that question about ‘where I stand.’ I’ll tell you what I’ve told all others.  When the State Board receives a final copy of the proposed Health Education Standard that is ready to be debated and voted on, you will know ‘where I stand.’”

I was so disheartened at the condescending reply. And while I understand and appreciate his willingness to listen to his constituents, I need a SBOE representative who is willing and able to speak up against this completely inappropriate material being pushed upon our kids.

I attended four Nebraska Board of Education meetings and at no point did I see Mr. Stevens oppose the health standards. In fact, when there was a vote to permanently halt their development, he voted against it. When citizens spoke out and shared concerns, Mr. Stevens wrote a letter to the editor attacking them, saying the standards were not written by activists as was claimed (although it was later proven to be 100% true). To date, I have seen no apology from the NDE or SBOE for the content of the health standards, only for the “timing.”

Much to my concern, I have no doubt that there will be future attempts to continue with the process.

I care deeply about our school system and all our children, which is why I strongly support Elizabeth Tegtmeier for the state board of education. She has not only taken a firm stand to protect our kids from unhealthy material, but advocates for local control and has a vision for addressing teacher shortages and increasing student proficiency in core subjects. I hope you will join me in voting for Elizabeth Tegtmeier this November.

 Jennifer Thomas, North Platte, NE