The State of New York passed a law mandating a Dignity for All Students Act. Its intent is to provide both elementary and secondary school students “a safe and supportive environment from discrimination, intimidation,” harassment and bullying on and off school property. It was effective in July 2012. Before the Act was passed Assemblyman Steven Cymbrowitz wanted Yeshivas and parochial schools to be exempt from any provisions that would conflict with their religion. But lessons and situations about tolerance which were not in keeping with their religious beliefs were not removed from the legislation. However, the Regents voted to exempt these private schools from the Act. But giving exemptions to these private schools does nothing to ensure religious liberty for public school students.
For example, the New Rochelle Public Schools recently developed a code of conduct for this new law (as all pubic schools are required to do) which rightfully states there should be “an educational environment that promotes respect, dignity and equality.’ The Board recognizes that harassment and bullying are detrimental to student learning and achievement. But nowhere in this Code of Conduct required by law are any exemptions for religious beliefs of students. However, the New Rochelle Board of Education is having a second hearing on their proposed new code of conduct for this law on September 4, 2012.
This code of conduct encompasses the “safety, morals, health, dignity or welfare of others,” but the moral conduct alluded to is not specified. Parents should question their Board of Education members about the exact details of how this Act is being implemented with regard to the texts and materials used and the content of the lessons given.
For instance, a very general statement can be interpreted in many ways. For example, in the code, will “discrimination” and “harassment off school property” include a student writing an email, talking on a cell phone or reading articles that express his or her belief that homosexual relations are immoral or against their religion? Will a faculty members be forced to “address personal biases?” What will the teacher training involve?
Parents who have established religious beliefs and have children in public schools now have few options. If they do not have children in religious schools, they can pay attention to this new act and how it will be implemented in their children’s public schools.
In the August 31, 2012 issue of Soundview Rising