TRENTON, NJ – Senators Troy Singleton, Jim Beach, Nilsa Cruz-Perez, and Fred Madden issued a statement today highlighting the importance of balanced involvement between parents and educational institutions. The senators expressed concern over the ongoing politicization of health education standards in New Jersey, which they believe is causing division and distraction from the core values of inclusivity and parental authority.
The statement emphasizes two key points: First, all children should feel comfortable and welcome in schools. Second, parents should continue to have the authority to make decisions concerning their child’s well-being. The senators argue that these principles are not mutually exclusive and that courtroom battles will not solve the overarching issue.
The New Jersey Department of Education’s curriculum standards aim to promote inclusion and a sense of belonging among students. These standards also provide educational content that empowers children to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
The Democrats stopped short of saying parents should be notified if a child wanted to officially change his gender in the classroom.
Instead, they blamed Republicans for making a big deal over nothing.
The senators took the opportunity to remind parents that they still have the option to opt their children out of lessons that conflict with their personal values or beliefs. They concluded by saying that today’s political climate has made public education unnecessarily partisan, a trend that should not distract parents from their ultimate authority and responsibility over their children’s growth and development.