Education Sec. Manny Diaz Jr. Urges Teachers Wanting to Teach Sexual Ideology to Leave the State

August 17, 2022 Updated 3:03 P.M. ET

TALLAHASSEE (FLV) – After a letter surfaced out of Fargo County, North Dakota of officials urging Florida teachers to relocate to the state if they oppose the Parental Rights in Education Act, Florida Education Secretary Manny Diaz Jr. said he agrees.

The letter, addressed to “Florida Educators,” was meant to express school officials’ disdain for HB 1557, the Parental Rights in Education Act, which prohibits the teaching of sexual orientation and gender identity for students in grades K-3. It encourages teachers to relocate to Fargo County if they disagree with the law.

In response, Diaz Jr. said he wants teachers to leave Florida if they support teaching young kids about sexual ideology.

“I fully support an 1,800 mile relocation for any adult who insists on instructing K-3 students on sexual ideology,” Diaz said.

“The media has distorted a bill with lies that are reflected in this letter. In Florida, we will continue recruiting & supporting great teachers who provide a quality education focused on foundational subjects like literacy – particularly in the early grades,” Diaz continued to say.

Democrats dubbed the bill “Don’t Say Gay,” even though the bill does not prohibit saying gay. Democrats have said the new law is too vague and sends a “hateful message” to the most vulnerable youth.

States across the country are struggling to handle the teacher shortage. Florida has worked on innovative ways to create more pathways for teachers. For instance, the state made it easier for veterans to receive a temporary teaching degree. Gov. Ron DeSantis also announced a series of proposed initiatives to encourage more people to instruct students.