Learn About Parental Rights

“What can I do?” is the most frequent question we get. Start with one thing, the easiest thing – opt your child out.  

The Parent Non-Consent Form (also called Parents Right to Opt Out) is two pages that lists major producers and distributors of materials that teach ten subjects that many parents find objectionable and/or age inappropriate for their child.  Read it. 

Be aware that a growing number of school districts incorporate those subjects into curriculum, classes, and activities that are not designated as sex ed or human reproductive health (e.g., library time, anti-bullying programs, Social and Emotional Learning). Districts may openly give you the opportunity to opt your child out of sex ed, but opting them out of sex ed classes alone does not protect them. 

Be aware, too, that the packet you get at the first of the school year for your child most likely includes a form for you to sign that gives your consent to the District to include your child in surveys without your knowledge. Federal law gives you the right to refuse consent for your child to take surveys that invade your privacy and/or that of your child. That information is also in the non-consent form.

So, what can you do?  Read the non-consent form.  Sign the non-consent form.  Give copies of the signed form to your child’s teacher(s).  We also suggest giving copies to the principal and the superintendent of your school district.  Begin with that.