The Cumberland County Schools district is embracing the newly enacted Parent Bill of Rights law, which was recently passed by the North Carolina General Assembly. This legislation, comprising 12 rights for parents concerning their child’s education, has generated considerable discussion, with most of these rights aligning with existing policies related to educational access and materials inspection.
One notable aspect of the law is its prohibition on teachers discussing gender identity or sexuality in kindergarten through fourth grades. Additionally, it mandates that education professionals must notify parents if their child expresses a desire to change their name or pronoun.
Cumberland County Schools’ commitment to parental engagement and respect for parental rights in the education and upbringing of children is explicitly stated on their official website. They underscore the indispensable role parents play in their children’s lives and education. While the district acknowledges that many aspects of the Parent Bill of Rights law are already addressed in existing board policies, they are committed to updating their website with any relevant changes regarding these rights.
State Senator Amy Galey, who sponsored the bill, emphasized its aim to enhance education in North Carolina by fostering greater parental involvement. She defended the legislation as a means of holding school systems accountable and providing parents with the necessary resources to advocate for their children.
Governor Roy Cooper, who vetoed the bill on July 5, expressed concerns about misplaced legislative priorities, noting the delay in passing a budget. Cooper characterized the bill as a “Don’t Say Gay bill” and voiced worries that it could deter teachers from discussing important topics in the classroom and hamper educators’ role as trusted advisors.
However, the new law does include an exemption that allows parents access to their child’s education or health records, except when disclosure could result in harm to the child.
The Parent Bill of Rights has sparked both support and criticism across the state. Supporters argue that it reinforces parents’ fundamental rights and ensures that students ultimately belong to their parents, not the government. State Superintendent Catherine Truitt also expressed support for the law, emphasizing its potential to facilitate communication between schools and parents.
Conversely, opponents, including organizations like the ACLU of North Carolina, the Human Rights Campaign, and the North Carolina Justice Center, argue that the law could have detrimental effects on transgender students and their ability to express their identities in a safe environment.
As this legislation continues to generate debate and shape the educational landscape in North Carolina, the Cumberland County Schools district remains committed to keeping parents informed and engaged in their children’s education.
