Mandated Comprehensive Sexual Education has been approved, now what?
In November Washington state voters approved referendum 90, mandating, all Washington public schools will teach Comprehensive Sexual Education (CSE) starting in Kindergarten, by the end of 2022-23 school year. Law stipulates curriculum must be age appropriate, and medically/scientifically accurate, and districts may choose any curriculum meeting the criteria. Parents do have the right to opt their child out of classroom instruction.
Who’s in control?
All public schools are required to use a CSE curriculum adhering to standards set by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), and guidelines developed by the department of health and OSPI. Not only does the OSPI set the standards, they can review and change them at any time they deem necessary, without public input. When changes are made by OSPI, school districts are required to stay in compliance, and update their curriculum.
Curriculum Choice Is Non-Existent
If not satisfied with OPSI approved curricula options, the law permits districts to choose an alternative CSE curriculum. It must meet OSPI standards, and be approved by OSPI. Any associated expenses incurred shall be borne by school districts. Eatonville SD, a small district estimates the cost of purchasing curriculum, training teachers and all other related expenses, at approximately $231,972.
OPT- OUT? Not so Fast…
Parents have the option to opt their child out of CSE, however it does not apply to anything outside of the regular class instruction, such as special assemblies or speakers. Planned Parenthood regularly trains teenage students to be Teen Advocates, who go into the public schools and teach their peers about “sexual health.” When peers taught a highly sexualized form of sex education, it is impossible to opt out of school culture. Bullying and sexual harassment of those who chose not to participate in CSE, are not uncommon.
What is a parent to do?
First, if at all possible, take your child out of the public-school system. Schools around the state are introducing curriculums designed to use children for culture change, rather than focus on academics needed to become a productive member of society. COVID-19 school closures have enlightened many parents, realizing they can home school as well, or better than public schools. Home school pods are popping up all over the place and resources for homeschool families are becoming more abundant.
Second, if alternative schooling is not available, parents must make it a priority to oversee teachers, and their lessons. Review the sex ed curriculum, and then opt your child out. Support teachers who and are opposed to teaching CSE. Let your child’s teacher know your values and wishes, and what is unacceptable. You, the parent are still the gatekeeper for your child.
Get Involved, Advocate for Parents’ Rights in Education!
School boards, representatives of the voters, were designed to support the rights of parents, and the wishes of the community. You and others like you can influence their decisions and hold them accountable. If your board does not care about parents’ rights, it’s time to elect replacement(s).
Navigating through the advocacy maze is always more palatable when working as a team. Start a group in your area, or join other parents to bring your ideas and grievances to your local school, district, and school board. Parents’ Rights in Education provides a support network and valuable accurate information. Visit parentsrightsined.org and click on “JOIN US
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