New Jersey’s latest move in public education is causing a stir. Under the administration of Gov. Phil Murphy (D), the Garden State is now mandating its K-12 schools to separate reproductive health education classes based on gender identity rather than biological gender. This controversial shift, passed by a single vote, continues the state’s liberalized public education trend.
While schools are permitted to offer combined reproductive health education classes, the Department of Education recognizes that specific “human development” lessons are conducted in separate, developmentally appropriate sessions. This means a biological male could now partake in sessions typically tailored for biological females and vice versa.
New Jersey requires K-12 schools to divide sex ed classes based on students' gender identity instead of biological sex, sparking controversy. The changes aim to liberalize public education, including a policy that allows transgender students to attend… https://t.co/No510xQ5Zu
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Critics argue that the policy lacks sufficient protective measures for young girls. Andrew Mulvihill, the state board’s vice president, voiced his concern: “Why are we protecting transgender kids and dividing up the groups and not protecting girls? Girls are a protected class, right?”
Murphy’s administration is no stranger to controversial education policy changes. Earlier this year, they sued four districts that required school officials to inform parents when their child exhibits a change in gender identity, a policy Murphy states effectively “outs” LGBT students to their families.
Here is a local report on the state’s gender policies in schools from last year:
Understandably, this new gender identity-based separation in reproductive health education classes has caused a significant backlash. Alarmed by the hasty change, residents have threatened legal action against the department.
But the most alarming part of this shift might be the state’s disregard for parental choice and school autonomy. Local school districts have only 60 days to align their equity plans with these new state standards. Previously, schools were given 180 days to implement equity changes, a timeframe that was already demanding. Please meet the new standards to avoid the suspension or termination of federal or state financial assistance.
While diversity and inclusivity should be celebrated in our schools, these changes seem more a matter of political correctness than practicality. Such an abrupt and comprehensive policy shift should not bypass the checks and balances of local control and parental input. They overlook parents’ vital role in the decision-making process regarding their children’s education.
Every child is unique, and parents are often best suited to choose what educational model will best suit their child’s needs. It’s crucial to respect parental choice and advocate for the availability of more diverse educational options to serve the diverse needs of our students. Families should be empowered to select an education that fits their needs and values.
