The district’s educational program will include instruction appropriate to the level of student understanding which:
1. Allows students to study and discuss controversial issues;
2. Provides opportunities to examine evidence, facts, and differing viewpoints; and
3. Teaches the importance of facts, the value of judgment, and respect for conflicting opinions.
However, some issues may be of such controversial nature that discussion of such issues may detract from the educational environment. Prior to presentation of subject matter of a possible controversial nature in class, the teacher and the principal will jointly review such subject matter. If the principal determines that the subject matter, methodology, or materials are possibly controversial, and lack educational value, he or she may instruct the teacher to modify or refrain from teaching the proposed lesson.
If the principal determines that the subject matter, methodology, or materials are possibly controversial, but effectively address some aspect of the curriculum, the teacher and the principal will determine what notification, if any, should be provided to the parents/guardians. An alternative lesson will be developed for students whose parents/guardians notify the school that they do not want their children exposed to the material at issue.
If the teacher and the principal disagree regarding the controversial nature of the subject matter, methodology, or materials, the matter will be reviewed by the superintendent. The superintendent will make the final decision in the matter.
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LEGAL REFERENCE:
Idaho Code §33-506 – Organization and Government of Board of Trustees
ADOPTED: December 15, 2022
AMENDED: