Policy 6144 - Controversial Issues

Controversial Issues

The Board of Education recognizes that the district's educational program may sometimes include instruction related to controversial issues that may arouse strong reactions based on personal values and beliefs, political philosophy, culture, religion, or other influences. Instruction concerning such topics shall be relevant to the adopted course of study and curricular goals and should be designed to develop students' critical thinking skills, ability to discriminate between fact and opinion, respect for others, and understanding and tolerance of diverse points of view.

The Board of Education expects administrators and teachers to exercise professional judgment when deciding whether or not a particular issue is suitable for study or discussion. They shall consult with the Superintendent or designee as necessary to determine the appropriateness of the subject matter, guest speakers, and/or related instructional materials or resources.

When providing instruction related to a controversial issue, the following guidelines shall apply:

1. 1. The topic shall be suitable to the age and maturity of the students
2. 2. Instruction shall be presented in a balanced manner, addressing all sides of the issue without bias or prejudice and without promoting any particular point of view
3. 3. The teacher may express a personal opinion provided he/she identifies it as a personal opinion and clarifies that he/she is not speaking on behalf of the school or district. The teacher shall not express an opinion for the purpose of persuading students to his/her point of view
4. 4. No student's viewpoint shall be suppressed, provided such expression is not malicious or abusive toward others. Students shall be assured of their Policy 6144 Page 2 right to form and express an opinion without jeopardizing their relationship with the teacher or school
5. 5. Students shall be informed of conduct expected during such instruction and the importance of being courteous and respectful of the opinions of others
6. 6. Adequate factual information shall be provided to help students objectively analyze and evaluate the issue and draw their own conclusions
7. 7. The instruction shall not reflect adversely upon persons because of their race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, religion, or any other basis prohibited by law
8. 8. The subject matter of the instruction shall not otherwise be prohibited by state or federal law.

When a guest speaker is invited to make a presentation related to a controversial issue, the Board of Education requires that he/she be notified of this policy and the expectations and goals regarding the instruction. If the guest speaker is presenting only one point of view on an issue, the teacher shall be responsible for ensuring that students also receive information on opposing viewpoints.

When required by law or otherwise deemed appropriate by the teacher or administrator, parents/guardians shall be notified prior to instruction related to any controversial issue and parent/guardian consent shall be obtained for student participation. Students whose parents/guardians decline such instruction may be offered the option to participate in an alternative activity of similar value.

A student or parent/guardian with concerns regarding instruction about controversial issues shall be directed to appropriate district complaint procedures.

Rule 6144

Rule Approved 12/08/1998

When a teacher undertakes a unit of study which might be viewed as controversial, or that contains elements or activities which might be viewed as controversial, the following steps are recommended:

• Meet and discuss the proposed unit, instructional activity, and/or program with the site administrator.
• When deemed appropriate by the administrator and/or teacher, parents or guardians will be notified in advance of the proposed instructional activity. Parents or guardians may request that an alternative instructional activity be provided for their child.