On Wednesday, June 15, 2022, the School District of Palm Beach County votes 5-2 on a new policy aligned with the Parental Rights in Education Law signed by Gov. DeSantis. It goes into a effect July 1. (WPEC)
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — The Palm Beach County School District will implement a policy for parents as required by the Parental Rights in Education law in time for the start of the school year in August.
Back in March, Governor Ron DeSantis signed this law which bans all instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation in grades K-3rd and any LGBTQ+ instruction seen as inappropriate for older grade levels.
On Wednesday, school board members formally approved the Parents Bill of Rights policy in a 5-to-2 vote.
This allows parents to object to school material they see as inappropriate and how to be involved.
Before the vote, members of the board heard from students, parents, and teachers about the negative impacts of this law.
“This bill being put in place is terrifying for me. I have spent 14 years of my life hiding and 12 years being bullied within the public school system,” said a former Palm Beach County student and current educator.
Some speakers shared personal stories about how this could cause harm to youths.
“Help us mitigate rape culture, homophobia, transphobia, eating disorders and self-harm and abuse. It will not happen by not mentioning it,” one student said.
Diversity and equity advocates in support of LGBQT+ youth say outlawing these conversations, or pulling certain books from libraries, could cause some to feel as if their identities are fading.
“Palm Beach County schools have no place for complacency when it comes to LGBTQ students,” said a Compass Community Center Employee.
The owner of a local bookstore and educator adds, “the pages of a book can transport us, lift us, acknowledge us, identify us, inspire us, literally keep us alive at times.”
Under Policy 5.735, titled Parental Bill of Rights and Notification of Right to Involvement in Palm Beach County Schools, also states: “The following policies include procedures for a parent to inspect and object to instructional materials and other materials used in the classroom- this may include workbooks, worksheets, handouts, software applications, and any digital media made available to students. These objections may be based on beliefs regarding morality, sex, and religion, or the belief that such materials are harmful.”
School leaders addressed students concerns, pointing how the risk of suicide and bullying is high in these age groups.
While they need to implement the policy, several board members spoke on how they will continue adding the resources students need to help them feel safer in schools.
“We are committed that your experience is going to be what it needs to be, which is fair, open, accessible, and positive. Not one that is full of fear, bullying and being made to feel less than by anybody,” said board member Alexandria Ayala.
Another member, Marcia Andrews, added, “I promise you; I will stand up for you wherever I go.”
The law officially goes into effect in Florida July 1st.