Tell the State Board of Ed not to separate students by gender identity for Sex Ed

If amended, the statewide policy would force schools that have decided to separate students for certain Health and Physical Education lessons do so based on gender identity. This is particularly problematic in elementary grades that focus on biologically based puberty and physical growth and development.

From a health perspective, students need to learn about their sex’s biological reproductive system and be encouraged to understand and take proper care of their anatomy. Separating by “gender identity” will also give access to biological males that self-assert an opposite sex gender identity to interrupt the comfortable and trusting learning environment young female elementary students deserve and biological females would have access to young male environments. We have serious concerns that this will hinder students from asking questions and seeking clarification on important information regarding their body’s anatomy and physiology. Without question, this will undoubtedly put an undue burden on elementary students who will most likely become confused and embarrassed to publicly discuss these sensitive topics with peers of the opposite sex in the classroom.

Furthermore, these questions must be carefully considered: 

• How will this impact many school districts that have locally approved polices that require male teachers instruct male students on puberty growth development and female teachers instruct female students?
• How will parental concerns and objections be addressed by the New Jersey State Board of Education?
• Will local parents and school boards once again face intimidation and threatening rhetoric from the New Jersey Department of Education, such as withholding funding or removing board members, because they incorporated parental input in their decision-making process?

The relationship among educators, school boards, parents, and the Department of Education will further be damaged if not irrevocably harmed by this proposed additional objectionable policy. We strongly believe local families, voters, and education stakeholders should discuss and decide how to best serve all families and students in their community.

Advancing this policy will further put at risk the reputation of New Jersey public schools. We urge the New Jersey State Board of Education to stop the unacceptable overreach of State government by withdrawing this amendment.