Tyler Pearce | Head Editor
Sep 21, 2023
With the commencement of the academic year, the Capistrano Unified School District is confronted by an evolving debate around the “parental notification policy.” The policy, if passed, could possibly fundamentally change the relationship between students, their families, and the educational institution.
This discussion, while local, mirrors a larger national debate on students’ rights to privacy. Recent studies indicate a rise in students identifying as transgender or non-binary, as according to the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, an estimated 150,000 youth (13 to 17) in the United States identify as transgender.
The core of the policy proposal isn’t clear yet, but neighboring districts that have adopted this policy. It mandates that parents and guardians be notified if their child chooses to adopt a different name, set of pronouns, or wishes to use facilities designated for the opposite sex. As a reference point, neighboring districts, like the Orange Unified School District, have already set precedents by adopting this notification policy.
Proponents see the policy as a move towards enhanced transparency between the school and parents. They argue that parents, as primary caregivers, should be fully aware of their child’s experiences and choices at school. Conversely, others highlight potential risks, including the danger posed to students from non-affirming households, thus a notification could lead to an unimaginable consequence.
The school board meeting on September 20th was a testament to the policy’s divisiveness. Of the roughly 80 speakers, opinions were distinctly polarized.
A student speaker from Tesoro High School remarked, “So many students come from unsupportive families, some are abused, both physically and mentally. By passing this, you’re suggesting that these kids should face potential danger at home. The aftermath could see a surge in self-harm, homelessness, and suicide rates. If schools are the sole sanctuary for some of these students, why would we take that away? How dare you.”
Michele Brooks countered, “You wonder why there’s a mental health crisis in this country? It’s because there’s an agenda making children question the beautifully perfect way that God made them. Schools shouldn’t override parental authority on such deeply personal matters.”
It’s worth noting that visual cues played a role in the evening’s proceedings. A significant number of attendees, particularly those opposing the policy, wore purple – silently emphasizing their opposition to this policy.
The pivotal board meeting is on for October 18th at 7:00pm at the Capistrano Unified School District. The future trajectory of our students will be shaped by the decisions made within those walls. The community’s presence and voice are imperative. The call is especially urgent for students: your participation, your stories, your voices, will echo the loudest. Stand up, show up, and shape the future of your district.
dang, it’s unfortunate that the only people who go to these board meetings are the most extreme and polarized. Also, idk if it is true but I heard that Mr. Popovich is asking people to pull up.