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In the U.S., a national push to reform K-12 education through policy and law changes is gaining momentum, driven by organizations, NGOs, and lobbyists. This movement is notably propelled by the SIECUS initiative, originally established in 1964 to promote comprehensive sex education. SIECUS has evolved, promoting sex education as a vehicle for broad cultural shifts towards sexual and reproductive freedoms. Their "Sex Ed for Social Change" campaign aims to influence societal norms and rights related to sexual health by integrating these lessons into school curriculums. Critics argue that this approach promotes a liberal agenda, extending beyond education to include broader social influences.The campaign has led to a significant rise in legislative actions with SIECUS at the helm of the Sex Education Policy Action Council (SEPAC), collaborating with various state entities to propagate comprehensive sex education policies. This coordinated effort seeks to increase the adoption of these policies at all levels of government and boost the number of policymakers supportive of comprehensive sex education.Despite the advocacy for educational and social change, there has been a notable backlash with a marked increase in parental rights bills and restrictive legislation concerning sexual and reproductive health education. This resistance highlights a growing divide over the role of education in shaping societal values and the rights of parents in overseeing their children's education. The battle lines are drawn as both sides mobilize to shape the future cultural landscape through the educational system.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

In January 2023, the New York legislature passed a proposed Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) for the second time, setting a ballot date for November 2024. The amendment seeks to ban discrimination based on various identifiers including sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity, among others. Proponents emphasize its potential to enhance abortion access post-Roe v. Wade. Critics, however, argue that the ERA could also advance gender ideology and weaken parental rights by enabling minors to access gender-affirming treatments without parental consent. They express concern that this could include treatments as significant as puberty blockers and genital surgery, facilitated by a broad interpretation of "person" in existing laws which include minors. Critics urge public awareness of these implications before the vote.The Louisiana House Committee on Education recently advanced House Bill 121, termed the "Given Name Act," which mandates the use of transgender and nonbinary students' birth names and pronouns in public K-12 schools, barring written permission from parents. This bill, passed along a 9-3 party-line vote, also allows school employees to refuse using certain pronouns contrary to their religious or moral beliefs. Further, it includes provisions for parents to request a teacher transfer if there's a disagreement on pronoun use based on teacher's convictions. The bill has been amended and progresses through the House, urging public engagement and monitoring.In Montana, a lawsuit has been filed by students, educators, and organizations challenging the 2021 law mandating parental notification 48 hours before discussing "human sexuality" in schools. The plaintiffs argue the law is vague, stifling free speech and educational quality, and threatens privacy and due process rights under the state Constitution. They contend the law prevents open dialogue on topics like gender identity and sexual health, limiting educational opportunities and potentially exposing LGBTQ+ students to further discrimination and bullying. Montana's government defends the law as protecting parental rights to oversee their children's exposure to sexually explicit content.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

In this episode of the Parents Rights in Education podcast, Hanna introduces the podcast's mission to empower parents in their child's education through free trainings and community support. Suzanne Gallagher then speaks with guest Amy Breitenstein, a new school board member from Moses Lake, Washington. Amy shares her motivation for running, driven by a desire to enact change rather than just complain. She discusses a contentious issue in her district— the construction of a smaller, project-based learning school instead of a second traditional high school, which has caused community frustration due to mismanagement and underutilization.Amy and Suzanne discuss the importance of parental voice in education decisions, highlighting how endorsements from organizations like Parents Rights in Education can influence school board elections. Amy emphasizes engaging the community to address bullying and improve school policies, recognizing the need for clear consequences for misbehavior. Suzanne advises leveraging supporter networks for effective community engagement. The podcast closes with an invitation for parents to join their movement and utilize their resources for effective school board involvement.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

In this episode of The Parents' Rights in Education podcast, we dive into the contentious debate over whether local school board elections should be partisan. Traditionally, these races have been non-partisan, intended to keep the focus on educational issues rather than political ideology. However, the reality often paints a different picture, as candidates typically come with ideological leanings and party affiliations, which can be misleading to voters.We explore how proponents of partisan elections, like Arizona Senator Justine Wadsack, argue that such transparency is necessary to give voters clear, honest information about where candidates stand on crucial educational policies. This could potentially lead to better-informed decisions that directly impact children's education.On the other hand, critics worry that introducing explicit partisanship could heighten tensions and further politicize school boards, making these roles even more contentious and potentially deterring qualified candidates.We also discuss the impact of low voter turnout in these elections and how clearer party affiliations might encourage greater voter engagement by making it easier for voters to understand candidates' platforms.Join us as we unpack the complexities of this issue, looking at both sides of the argument, and consider what the future of school board elections might hold. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how this change could affect educational governance and what it means for parental rights in education.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

Ohio's House Bill 183, termed the "Bathroom Bill," mandates that K-12 public schools and higher education institutions designate bathrooms based on biological sex. Introduced by Republican Representatives Beth Lear and Adam Bird, it aims to ensure safety, according to its proponents. However, the bill has encountered significant opposition, with over 100 detractors arguing it discriminates against transgender students. A committee vote is imminent, with significant Republican support anticipated.Arizona's SB1097, proposed by Senator Justine Wadsack, seeks to make school board elections partisan. The bill has passed initial stages with party-line support in the Republican-majority Senate and House committee. The Arizona School Boards Association opposes the measure, citing concerns about partisanship in educational governance. Advocates argue the change would better inform voters by revealing candidates' political affiliations. The full House vote is pending, with significant implications for party representation in elections.A Pew Research Center survey reveals that 51% of Americans believe public K-12 education is heading in the wrong direction, citing insufficient focus on core academic subjects, politicization by teachers, and inadequate funding as key concerns. Only 16% see it as moving in the right direction. Partisan differences are notable, with Republicans and Democrats diverging on the reasons for their dissatisfaction. The survey highlights a growing discontent with the direction of educational policy in the U.S.In Portland, Oregon, a lawsuit has been filed against Portland Public Schools, Multnomah County, and a nonprofit after a 9-year-old girl was allegedly raped by classmates at Scott Elementary School and its after-school program. Seeking $9 million, the suit claims negligence in monitoring and training, failing to report the incident promptly, and inadequately handling the victim's complaints of earlier sexual harassment. The legal action underscores serious concerns about student safety and response protocols in educational settings.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

Suzanne talks with Missie Carra about school choice in Texas and how not-so-obvious language is injected into new bills that will adversely impact education and parents’ rights.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

Parents’ Rights in FocusEngagement in local education is crucial for shaping public school policies. Here’s how to get involved effectively:Stay Informed: Access and read school and district communications through websites and newspapers. School board agendas and minutes are publicly available and are essential for understanding upcoming decisions.Understand the Process: Learn about policy development, budgeting, and curriculum approval processes. Districts encourage public input, yet actual community participation is often low.Volunteer and Network: Participate in school events and activities to connect with the community. Volunteering for events or Career Day can make a significant difference.Attend School Board Meetings: Active participation in school board meetings allows you to observe and influence the district's direction. Engaging in the curriculum approval process and voicing concerns about educational materials are ways to contribute.Run for School Board: If the current board does not reflect community values, consider running for a position. School boards make critical decisions regarding education policies, curricula, and district management.There are over 90,000 school board members in the U.S., making them a significant force in education. By taking part in school board elections, individuals can ensure educational policies align with community standards.This approach combines staying informed, engaging in governance, volunteering, participating in board meetings, and potentially running for a board position. Through these steps, individuals can play a pivotal role in the educational landscape.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

The new Wyoming law, SF0009, mandates parental consent for teaching about gender identity and sexual orientation in schools. It requires districts to share well-being questionnaires and health screening tools with parents/guardians for consent before use and mandates teacher notifications to parents about changes in students' health. Critics argue it could lead to legal issues for educators from unsatisfied parents. The law outlines a complaint resolution process, takes effect on July 1, and encourages proactive familiarization with its provisions.The Murrieta Valley school district is under investigation for a policy requiring staff to inform parents if a student identifies with a gender different from their birth certificate, termed "forced outing." This has drawn comparisons to a previous issue in Chino Valley. State and federal probes were triggered by complaints from district teachers. The California Department of Education demanded the policy's end, threatening funding withdrawal. Attorney General Rob Bonta has sued the district, citing discrimination. There's a call to action supporting parental rights against state interference.The Roxbury School Board voted 6-4 to potentially rescind a policy allowing transgender students to self-identify their gender without parental consent, use preferred restrooms, and participate in activities matching their gender identity. Initiated in 2019 to align with state guidelines, this decision awaits a final vote. Advocates for rescinding argue it restores parental rights. They urge public support for board members favoring the repeal, recommending attendance at the next reading, social media advocacy, and direct expressions of gratitude to these members.Affiliate ShoutoutDavid Hunt Role: Local Affiliate Leader  Location: Moses Lake, Washington  Bio: David became an Affiliate leader last year and has been recruiting members for his Affiliate group nonstop! He is active in his area and was instrumental in identifying pro-parental rights candidates for his school board and getting them elected!  Thank you David for protecting students by standing up for Parents' Rights!Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

Suzanne Gallagher welcomed Sunday Shibley from Willis, Texas, to discuss parents' rights in education and local school district activism. Shibley shared her journey from being unaware of school content issues to becoming a state Grassroots Coordinator and advocate for parental rights. She emphasizes the importance of educating parents on school happenings and actively works to remove inappropriate books from schools, facing challenges such as being labeled "unhinged" for directly quoting controversial material at school board meetings. Shibley’s efforts include attending school board meetings, campaigning, and using social media platforms to inform and rally support. Despite setbacks, such as surgery and pushback from school authorities, she perseveres in advocating for book removals and engaging in legislative efforts. Her work has sparked community support, leading to increased parental involvement and prayer groups for schools. Shibley emphasizes the need for protecting children from inappropriate content, challenging school book selections, and advocating for parental oversight in educational content. Gallagher praises Shibley's dedication and suggests broader community actions, like petitions, to support school change. The conversation underscores the importance of parental involvement, transparency in school materials, and the ongoing struggle to ensure educational environments align with community values.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution upholds free speech, including at school board meetings and within schools, albeit with certain limitations. School board meetings, being public forums, cannot legally restrict speech based on content. However, they can impose restrictions on the place, time, and manner of speech, provided these restrictions are content-neutral. Instances of violation include a Louisiana teacher's removal from a meeting for speaking on salary issues, and a Washington state parent barred from school grounds, both situations highlighting the critical balance between free speech and school policy enforcement.For students, the Supreme Court has recognized their right to free speech in schools, except where it disrupts learning or infringes on others' rights. Landmark cases like Tinker v. Des Moines established that students do not lose their free speech rights at school, but subsequent rulings have nuanced this stance. For example, Bethel School District v. Fraser allowed schools to prohibit vulgar or lewd speech, and Morse v. Frederick permitted the restriction of speech promoting illegal drug use.Noteworthy cases reflecting these principles include Addison Barnes, who was disciplined for wearing a political T-shirt, leading to a lawsuit and a settlement affirming his free speech rights. Similarly, Jaiden Rodriguez faced disciplinary action for displaying patches, including the Gadsden flag, on his backpack, which was initially perceived as violating the dress code due to its historical connections. This decision was later reversed, acknowledging the importance of historical context and free speech.These examples underline the evolving dialogue around free speech rights for parents, students, and teachers, emphasizing the need for awareness and advocacy to ensure these rights are protected and respected in educational settings.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

Alabama - Senate Bill 129 Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signed Senate Bill 129, banning "divisive concepts" in education and restricting DEI programs, effective from October 1, 2024. Citizens are urged to monitor compliance and report violations.Washington State's Senate Bill 5462 mandates teaching LGBTQ history in schools from 2025, aiming for a more inclusive curriculum. Critics argue it promotes explicit content. Citizens are encouraged to express concerns to representatives.Virginia Governor Youngkin criticized the Loudoun County School Board's decision to turn off cameras during public comments, arguing it diminishes transparency. He emphasized the board's duty to parents and announced plans to enhance parental notification regarding school incidents. Citizens are urged to personally record school board meetings.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

In this podcast episode from the "Parents Rights in Education" series, Suzanne Gallagher converses with Camille Kiefel, founder of the nonprofit organization D Trans Help. Kiefel shares her personal journey through gender identity struggles, including undergoing a non-binary mastectomy funded by Medicaid, which ultimately led to worsening mental health and physical health issues. She speaks about her extensive experience with mental health treatments, including dialectical behavior therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation, none of which provided relief until she focused on her physical health. This led her to question the fast-track process for gender transition surgeries and the lack of support for those wishing to detransition.Kiefel's organization, D Trans Help, aims to provide support for detransitioners, highlighting the medical and bureaucratic challenges they face, such as the absence of an ICD-10 code for detransition, which complicates insurance billing for necessary medical care. The discussion touches on broader issues around gender transition policies, the quick diagnosis and recommendation for major surgeries without exploring underlying health issues or alternative treatments, and the financial and ideological motives that may influence the healthcare system's approach to gender dysphoria. Kiefel's testimony against a conversion therapy bill in Oregon underscores the complex landscape of legal and medical standards affecting individuals with gender dysphoria and those considering detransitioning.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

In this episode titled "I Demand the Affirmation of Normal!", we delve into the recent pivotal decision by the United Kingdom to halt the routine prescription of puberty blockers for minors, a move reported by the BBC as a response to an independent review's findings on the lack of evidence regarding their safety and effectiveness. Highlighting a significant shift in the approach towards gender identity treatment for children, this development raises critical questions about the use of such medication, especially given the profound increase in referrals to the Gender Identity Development Service. The discussion also touches upon the historical context of puberty blockers, originally developed for entirely different medical purposes, and the concerning side effects associated with their use.The podcast challenges the current narrative surrounding gender-affirming care, particularly for pre-pubescent children, and questions the medical and ethical implications of administering such treatments without adequate evidence of their safety. It brings to light the concerns over medical experimentation on children, citing the increasing recognition of these issues across various states in the U.S. and the call for a more cautious and evidence-based approach.Furthermore, the episode scrutinizes the broader societal and medical discourse on normalcy, puberty, and the concept of gender transitioning, advocating for a return to common sense in health protection and a reevaluation of what constitutes normal biological development. It critically examines the implications of allowing children to make life-altering decisions about their gender identity at a young age, underscoring the importance of basing medical treatments on solid scientific evidence and a thorough understanding of human development.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

The episode of the Parents' Rights in Education podcast discusses the movement's efforts to support and empower parents in their role in their children's education. It introduces a bill, the Parents Right to Know Bill, passed by the Alabama House with bipartisan support, requiring transparency from educators by posting curriculum online and allowing parents to review instructional materials. The episode also addresses a study on transgender surgery and suicide risk, indicating a doubled suicide rate post-surgery, questioning the narrative that gender reassignment is life-saving. Additionally, it covers the Department of Justice's handling of documents comparing concerned parents to the KKK and the Southern Poverty Law Center's inclusion of parental rights groups on a hate map. The podcast encourages listeners to support parents' rights by joining their movement and contributing to their cause, with a preview of an upcoming interview with a de-transitioner offering insight into the issue.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

News:Washington's Initiative 2081 boosts parents' rights in education, allowing material review and opt-outs. Leaked WPATH files expose risky practices in gender medicine, lacking evidence-based standards, and hint at a global medical scandal.Oregon superintendent engaged members of a national coalition of progressive activists for "research" on parents, which she used to sway the school board.America First Legal Sues Fairfax County Public Schools for Sex and Religious Discrimination, and Violation of Free Speech RightsToday’s Topic:Today, Suzanne underscores the vital importance of K-12 education and safeguarding parents' rights from opposing ideologies. She critiques the impact of leftist ideologies in schools and advocates for local control and educational content that instills national pride. Emphasizing the collective responsibility in shaping the education system, she calls for active local involvement to prevent indoctrination. Suzanne rallies for unity among supporters to effect change, emphasizing perseverance with the motto: "Don’t give up, and never give in."Interview:Ted Lamb, a conservative teacher with over 27 years of experience, engages in activism through wearing yellow on Thursdays to support like-minded educators and foster a sense of community without fear of backlash. As an admin for Conservative Teachers of America, he extends this symbol of solidarity to homeschoolers and other organizations, emphasizing the need for support in diverse educational environments. Lamb also runs "History Moments with Ted," focusing on primary sources to teach U.S. history and economics, aiming to provide factual and unslanted education. He highlights the importance of understanding the Constitution and economics in daily life, advocating for education that prepares students for practical decision-making and citizenship.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

In Illinois, the Parents Matter Coalition opposes HB 4876, which criminalizes denying certain services to children. They seek 500,000 signatures for a referendum requiring parental consent for minors' non-emergency medical procedures, including gender-related treatments.Oregon Senate approves SB 1583, barring book bans in schools/libraries, aiming to protect content on diversity. Critics say it limits parental rights to challenge explicit materials.West Virginia's HB 5036, a "Parents' Bill of Rights," introduced to give parents final authority on children's health/welfare, including medical treatments and mental health decisions.The podcast from Parents' Rights In Education raises concerns about "grooming" in schools, where kids are being taught about sex and gender in ways that might not align with what their parents think is appropriate. It highlights the problem of schools going beyond educating, to influencing children about sensitive topics without parental consent. The discussion points out signs of grooming, like adults asking kids to keep secrets or talking about adult topics, emphasizing that these behaviors are being spotted in educational settings. The podcast strongly opposes materials and clubs in schools that encourage kids to explore sexuality and gender identity secretly, challenging the safety and science behind gender-transition treatments promoted in schools. It calls for parents to take a stand against what it sees as harmful teachings and practices in public schools, urging a movement to safeguard kids and parental rights in education.A Discussion with Cindy Allen:In a discussion on the Parents' Rights in Education podcast, host Suzanne Gallagher welcomes guest Cindy Allen to discuss her activism in McMinnville, Oregon. Motivated by concerns over explicit content in school books, Allen details her efforts to support local school board candidates and spread awareness through a community newsletter. Despite challenges in mobilizing widespread engagement, Allen and Gallagher emphasize the importance of informing parents and leveraging organizational resources to advocate for educational transparency and parental rights, including opposition to legislation limiting parental influence over school materials.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

News:Westwood school board moves to revive gender policy. Critics call it 'parental exclusion' - Westwood Board reignites debate by reversing 'parental rights' policies, reinstating a transgender student policy without parental notification, per state guidelines. Focus on inclusivity and privacy supported by Superintendent.Teachers Sue Gavin Newsom Over Policy Forcing Them to Lie About Student’s Transgender Status to Parents - CA teachers sue, including Gov. Newsom, over policies that bar them from revealing students' transgender status to parents, citing First Amendment rights.Libs of Tiktok - Models of Pride LGBTQ+ Center Ads in K-12 - LA school criticized for promoting LGBTQ+ event with drag shows for youth. Critics decry mixing drag with education, highlighting inclusivity vs. community standards debate.Affiliate Shoutout: Nick Sawka from Lynden WashingtonBio: Nick became an affiliate for us last year and has been excellent at being our eyes and ears on the ground in his area. Thank you Nick for protecting students by standing up parents’ rights!Episode Topic:Suzanne discussed the idea the K-12 Costs $1 Million Bucks per Classroom and shares how this number is calculated.Links to articles referenced:NY Post Article, April 11, 2023: NYC school spending soars 33% as enrollment, test scores dwindle By Carl CampanileForbes: Another Article April 2023, titled, NYC Will Spend $38,000 Per Pupil Next Year. What Does That Buy? by Frederick HessNew Hampshire’s cost per pupil reaches new record, January 10, 2024Guest Segment:Suzanne talk with Kate Anderson to talk about laws the protect parents’ rights to raise their children as they see fit.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

West Virginia: Drag Queen Teacher Arrested on Child S*xual Abuse ChargesKnowledge or Consent, and After New Evidence Proving the Scale of the DeceptionEyes on Education - Indiana Attorney General Todd RokitaTopic:  Why Testifying Before a Woke Board WorksTestifying before the Oregon Senate Education Committee against Senate Bill 1583, which seeks to centralize control over school curriculum decisions, underscores the importance of civic engagement even in seemingly predetermined outcomes. The effort to oppose this bill, despite the Committee's majority support for it, highlights several key reasons why participating in such testimonies is beneficial.Firstly, it provides an opportunity to build relationships with sympathetic committee members, laying groundwork for future advocacy. The mobilization effort by Parents’ Rights In Education, including in-person and online testimonies, press releases, and social media outreach, amplifies the message on a national level. This exposure is crucial for publicizing the opposition's stance, which might otherwise remain unheard.Furthermore, the act of testifying serves as a training ground for developing skilled advocates who can articulate reasoned arguments against policies they oppose. It emphasizes the value of individual voices in influencing public opinion and policy, illustrating how a single person's efforts can have a broad impact.The involvement in such actions since 2018 has spurred a growing awareness among individuals previously disengaged from political activism, highlighting the educational system's influence and the importance of participation in governance. This movement not only fosters a community of activists but also emphasizes the necessity of standing up for one’s rights and the potential to enact change through collective action.In conclusion, testifying against unfavorable legislation, despite the odds, is a vital act of resistance that educates, mobilizes, and empowers individuals and communities to advocate for their rights and influence policy. It's an affirmation of the belief in the power of advocacy and the importance of active participation in the democratic process.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com

The Parents' Rights in Education podcast delves into contentious educational policies across the United States, highlighting significant debates on parental rights and inclusivity in schools.In Oregon, Senate Bill 1583 is discussed for its aim to eliminate discrimination in selecting educational materials, requiring inclusivity of contributions by various races, disabilities, and the LGBT community. Critics argue it could prevent objections to explicit content by equating them to discrimination.In Madison, Wisconsin, the partisan divide is evident in the passage of the "Parental Bill of Rights" (AB 510), granting parents the right to exempt their children from lessons on gender identity, sexual orientation, and racial issues. This sparks a debate between protecting parental control and the risk of censoring educational content.Lastly, the podcast discusses America First Legal's lawsuit against the Pine-Richland School District in Pennsylvania for its policy on student gender transitioning without parental consent, labeling it as radical and unconstitutional. This case highlights the complex balance between supporting student rights and maintaining parental oversight in education, reflecting broader national debates.In this podcast episode titled "We Got 'Em Runnin' Scared! Tips for Nailing Main Thing When Others Attack," we discusses Oregon's SB1583, a law that limits local schools from selecting educational materials, arguing it overlooks parents' rights and religious views. Critics say it centralizes control over education, sidelining parents' input. The episode emphasizes the importance of parental involvement in schooling, calling the law a mistake for removing local choice.Support the Show.DONATE TODAY!www.ParentsRightsInEducation.com