The Observer Media Group has joined a coalition of Central Florida-based news media organizations in a call for Orange County Public Schools to revise a district media policy that threatens press freedom, limits transparency and chills constitutionally protected speech.
The Society of Professional Journalists has joined the outlets as part of its ongoing “Gagged America” project that documents the growing use of government policies that restrict employee speech and limit public access to information.
In a June 8 letter to district leaders, including Superintendent Dr. Maria Vazquez, the coalition raised concerns about OCPS Management Directive B-5, which appears to require employees to obtain approval before speaking with journalists…