Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District adopts new policy on teaching controversial issues

 

A new policy regarding instruction on controversial issues has been adopted by Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District trustees and will be in effect when the 24,000 students return to classrooms on the district's 34 campuses Aug.30.

And unlike the split votes on some past hot-button topics, such as banning critical race theory from classroom instruction and matters related to the coronavirus pandemic, the controversial issues policy earned the support of all five elected trustees.

The 520-word policy, which had two readings before final adoption last month, notes that controversial issues “may arouse strong reactions” based on personal values and beliefs.

Therefore, instruction on such topics “shall be relevant to the adopted course of study … 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 policy outlines eight guidelines for instruction, including that topics “be suitable to the age and maturity of the students,” and that instruction addresses all sides of the issue without bias and “without promoting any particular point of view.”

Notably, according to the policy, “a teacher may not advocate his/her personal opinion” and the superintendent or designee “may instruct teachers to refrain from sharing personal views in the classroom on controversial topics.”

Also notably, “Students shall be assured of their right to form and express an opinion without jeopardizing their grades or being subject to discrimination, retaliation or discipline, provided the viewpoint does not constitute harassment, threats, intimidation or bullying or is otherwise unlawful.”

Also included: students shall be informed of the importance of courtesy and respect for opinions of others, and “adequate factual information shall be provided to help students objectively analyze and evaluate the issue and draw their own conclusions.”

Naturally, “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.”

Guest speakers who make presentations related to a controversial issue will be informed of the policy and “the expectations and goals regarding the instruction.” If guest speakers present just one side of issues, teachers are responsible for ensuring students receive opposing viewpoints.

Parents or guardians are to be notified that they can request in writing to have their students excused from controversial topic instruction, when required by law, such as for sexual health and HIV prevention education.

The policy further states: “A student or parent/guardian with concerns regarding instruction about controversial issues should communicate directly with the teacher or principal.”