Duval residents rally in support of pride at DCPS meeting; Explore Jax Core; IDEA Public Schools open in Jacksonville; What's good Wednesday

By Marie Billow

Published June 9, 2022 at 10:08 AM EDT

Jennifer Cowart (center), who leads a new advocacy group called Public School Defenders, led a rally outside Tuesday's Duval School Board meeting. — Jennifer Cowart, center, who leads a new advocacy group called Public School Defenders, led a rally outside Tuesday's Duval School Board meeting.

Duval County residents turned out to Tuesday's school board meeting to share their feelings about the county’s LGBTQ+ support guide. The controversial “Parental Rights in Education” law, which would allow school staff to “out” students as LGBTQ+ to their parents, was one of the main focuses of the rally.

Guest: Dr. Jen Cowart, director, Public School Defenders.

Explore Jax Core

Duval residents have been concerned recently that Jacksonville's Black community hasn't been involved enough in planning for the city's bicentennial celebrations. Local Black business owner Yolanda Copeland has been focused on boosting black community involvement through her tourism company called Explore Jax Core.

Guest: Yolanda Copeland, CEO, Explore Jax Core.

IDEA Public Schools open in Jacksonville

IDEA Public Schools will soon open two new charter schools here in Jacksonville, filling a void left by traditional public schools that have closed in those areas.

Guest: Simaran Bakshi, vice president, IDEA Jacksonville.

What’s good Wednesday

Local author A.R.K. Horton has published the latest in a fascinating set of fantasy novels. Her new series, "The Telverin Trilogy," features a sheltered princess who learns to save herself.
This summer, Florida residents with a library card can visit our state parks for free. You will need to check out a pass from your local library. Passes are limited.
The Karpeles Museum in Springfield is hosting a free light show this weekend as part of the city's Bicentennial celebrations. Jacksonville resident Richard Borders, who pioneered light and music shows at Woodstock and the Monterey Pop Festival for rock legends like The Who, Pink Floyd and other stars, created the show.
Build Up Downtown will hold its monthly Historic Stanton Cleanup from 9-11 a.m. at 521 W. Ashley St. If you can’t make it this month, mark your calendars for the upcoming cleanups on July 9, Aug. 13 and Sept. 10.
The Beaches Fine Arts Series is hosting its annual art auction this month from June 4 to 18 online with a live exhibition on June 11. Dr. M.J. Hinson gave us a preview.