THREAD: iowa principal

OKLAHOMA Court BLOCKS First Religious Charter School

25 June 2024 — The Oklahoma Supreme Court halted the establishment of the first publicly funded religious charter school in the U.S. The court ruled that the Statewide Virtual Charter School Board’s approval of St. Isidore of Seville Virtual Charter School violated both state and federal constitutions. This decision is a setback for conservatives and Governor Kevin Stitt, who have supported religious involvement in public education.

Justice James Winchester stated that under Oklahoma law, charter schools must be nonsectarian, making it unconstitutional for St. Isidore to operate as a Catholic school with public funding. The ruling emphasized that public schools cannot evangelize or promote religious curricula while receiving state sponsorship.

Supporters of the school had hoped recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions would allow more flexibility for public funds to go to religious entities. Conservative states like Louisiana have already pushed for more religious content in public schools, such as posting the Ten Commandments in classrooms and teaching the Bible.

In response to the ruling, the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City and Diocese of Tulsa announced they will “consider all legal options.” This case will likely continue to be a focal point in debates over religion’s role in publicly funded education systems across America.

IDAHO Supreme Court REJECTS Appeal in Shocking Student Murder Case

13 March 2024 — The Idaho Supreme Court dismissed the pretrial appeal of Bryan Kohberger on Tuesday. Kohberger’s public defenders had argued that his indictment on four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary was improperly handled by prosecutors.

The grand jury was guided to indict if they found guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, which is a more stringent criterion than probable cause. The reasoning behind the Idaho Supreme Court’s dismissal of the appeal was not disclosed.

Kohberger, a 29-year-old Ph.D. student hailing from Pennsylvania, stands accused of committing an unspeakable crime in Moscow, Idaho. He allegedly infiltrated an off-campus residence and brutally murdered four University of Idaho students in November 2022. His bid to stall proceedings by challenging the judge’s refusal to discard the indictment proved futile

As Kohberger awaits trial for his purported heinous acts, this case continues to evolve. This latest ruling signifies another stride towards justice for the victims.

TRUMP’S EYE on Burgum: A Potential Power Player in Second Administration

21 January 2024 — Doug Burgum, the Governor of North Dakota, has recently been spotlighted by former President Trump as a potential key player for his possible second term. This news emerged following Trump’s unprecedented victory in the Iowa Caucuses.

Responding to conjecture about a potential role in Trump’s administration, Burgum, who had previously endorsed Trump just before the Iowa Caucuses said, “Well, it’s very flattering... but you know, these are all hypotheticals.”

The Governor underscored his dedication to his current position and to backing Trump’s nomination and election endeavors. He further explained that his previous campaign was motivated by concerns about the economy, energy and national security issues that America is facing.

SELFLESS Iowa Principal SHIELDS Students from Gunfire: A Heroic Tale of Bravery

06 January 2024 — Perry High School Principal Dan Marburger was critically injured on Thursday. He was shielding students from a teenage shooter in a harrowing incident. The 17-year-old student, armed with both a shotgun and handgun, injured six other staff members and students before ending his own life.

Marburger’s act of bravery has been praised by the state Department of Public Safety. Currently, he is receiving treatment in a Des Moines hospital. The principal is being hailed for his selfless decision to place himself in harm’s way to protect his students.

The small town of Perry is mourning this devastating event. Classes across the district have been suspended until next Friday as the community grapples with this shocking incident.

Perry Superintendent Clark Wicks spoke about the pain and grief impacting their school community. Counseling has taken precedence over classes as they take time to remember those affected by this senseless act of violence.

IOWA SCHOOL Shooting: Innocent Lives Lost in Heart-Wrenching Attack, Community in Shock

04 January 2024 — A day of learning turned into a nightmare when a 17-year-old student unleashed gunfire at Perry High School in Iowa. The first day back from winter break was marred by the death of a sixth-grader and injuries to five others, including the school’s principal, Dan Marburger. The shooter, Dylan Butler, also died due to what appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The tranquil town of Perry, home to approximately 8,000 people and situated about 40 miles northwest of Des Moines, was plunged into turmoil by the shocking incident. Families were reunited at the McCreary Community Building after the shooting that has left this close-knit community devastated.

Authorities disclosed that during his assault Butler was armed with both a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun. A crude homemade explosive device was also discovered on-site but was safely deactivated by authorities.

This latest episode of gun violence once again puts America’s gun ownership rights under the microscope. As such events persistently occur nationwide, they cast an ever-growing shadow over other fundamental rights.