Parents barred from attending board meeting on policy limiting parental rights.

The Battle Over Parental Rights in Maryland’s Largest School District

The largest school district in Maryland is stirring controversy as it prepares to discuss a policy that restricts parents’ ability to opt their children out of lessons on gender identity and sexuality.

Restricted Access to Meeting

Montgomery County Public Schools has announced that it will limit access to an upcoming meeting where the policy will be discussed. Instead of being open to the public, the meeting will only be accessible to scheduled speakers, invited attendees, and other guests. The district claims that this limitation is necessary for “safety” reasons.

Parental Lawsuit

A lawsuit was filed by parents last month against the district, challenging the policy that prevents them from removing their children from lessons on gender orientation and sexual identity. The parents, representing a Muslim and a Christian family, argue that this prohibition violates their First Amendment religious rights.

Controversial Curriculum

The lawsuit specifically mentions the use of “Pride Storybooks” in lessons for children on gay and transgender topics. According to the lawsuit, the school board’s decision to restrict parental rights goes against Maryland law, board policy, and practice, as well as the United States Constitution.

A Broader Trend

This situation is just one example of a larger trend where Democrats are attempting to limit parental involvement in lessons on LGBT topics. Recently, the Democratic New Jersey attorney general filed a lawsuit against three school districts for policies that require teachers to inform parents if a child publicly changes their gender identity. In California, legislation is being advanced to consider a child’s “gender affirmation” as part of their health, safety, and welfare in custody disputes, potentially favoring parents who support their child’s affirmation.