If parents rule the schools, these teachers don’t seem to think so, even going so far as to declare themselves “the state” here.
Parents do rule. Or they do when they vote and stand up for their kids. The state education mucky-mucks are a result of The People. More so are the local mucky-mucks.
When parents move to a new house, how many investigate the school district and the schools their kids will be attending? Very few bother so it’s their own fault when their 5 year old gets suspended for chewing the corner out of a Pop Tart or dares ask why Johnny has two daddies.
Guaranteed, a principal will likely cave when 3 parents call him on a stupid new rule. Deep down, he knows who writes his paycheck. Superentendents’ egos are harder to crack but 1) tell him to have the school lawyer to explain the law to him or 2) tell him you’re calling the media will usually get prompt results. The state legislature may take a week or two of phone calls but they also know where they get their paychecks.