In Mahmoud vs. Taylor, the United States Supreme Court addressed the question of parental/guardian notice and ability to “opt-out” of instructional material that would substantially interfere with the religious development of a child or pose a “very real threat of undermining” the religious beliefs and practices the parents/guardians wish to instill in the child. In Mahmoud, the court determined that parents/guardians have the right to receive notice of and the ability to “opt-out” of instruction regarding “LGBTQ+ storybooks.” According to the United States Supreme Court, whether substantial interference exists depends on the specific religious beliefs and practices asserted as well as the specific nature of the educational requirement or instruction at issue.
The intent of this notice is to make you aware that the district anticipates utilizing the following instructional materials on the dates outlined in the schedule below. Classroom teachers will also notify parents/guardians of the titles of instructional materials to be used in upcoming lessons. Parents/guardians are also encouraged to regularly review individual class syllabuses and assignments to stay informed of lesson plans to timely notify the district of instructional materials they wish to opt-out of.
Students who are opted out from specific instructional materials will be provided an alternative educational activity and will not be subjected to disciplinary action, academic penalty, or other sanction if the student’s parent/guardian declines to permit the student to receive the instruction.
Please see our complete Mahmoud vs. Taylor parent/guardian notice for more information.
