All over the country, schools are introducing policies that have lots of people talking—but not always in a good way. The new rules have started debates in classrooms, homes & online because people are divided over what’s best for students. Here are ten school policies sparking national outrage as well as the controversy behind them. Just remember, we’re not here to criticize or support either side of the argument but rather to share the facts.
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New York City’s Universal Access to Free School Lunches
Since 2017, New York City has provided free lunch to all public school students regardless of their family’s income. Those in favor claim it makes sure that no child goes hungry & it reduces the stigma around free meals for those who need them. But some taxpayers question the cost of the program—they believe it should be reserved for anyone who actually requires it.
California’s Ethnic Studies Requirement for High School Graduation
In 2021, California became the first state to require high school students to complete an ethnic studies course to graduate, starting with the class of 2030. The curriculum focuses on marginalized people’s history with the goal of increasing students’ understanding. But there are also critics who believe the content might be politically biased & divisive so they think it shouldn’t be taught nor required in any schools.
Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” Law in Schools
Florida passed a law called the Parental Rights in Education bill (AKA the “Don’t Say Gay” law) that stops teachers from discussing sexual orientation & gender identity with students. It prevents such discussions with students from kindergarten through third grade, with supporters claiming that the law protects them from inappropriate discussions. However, critics believe it avoids important conversations & it leaves LGBTQ+ students without support from the one place that they should get it—school.
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Critical Race Theory in Curriculum
Several states have banned Critical Race Theory (CRT) from being taught in their schools while certain school districts are in support of it. For those in favor, they see CRT as a way to allow students to explore systemic racism & its impact in order to promote social justice. They believe it is a necessary part of education. On the other hand, critics believe CRT makes students feel guilty or resentful of white people. Some of them argue that it isn’t suitable for all ages.
Virginia’s Policies on Transgender Students
In September 2022, Virginia’s Department of Education created new guidelines for transgender students that require students to use bathrooms according to their sex, rather than their gender identity. The measures also cover sports & other gender-segregated activities, with the aim of ‘protecting’ young girls & women. Of course, the policy isn’t without its critics—many people are upset because they believe these rules ignore the rights of transgender students.
Iowa’s Law Requiring Parental Notification of Gender Identity
Similarly, in March 2023, Iowa passed Senate File 496 which requires schools to inform parents about students asking to use a different name or pronouns. LGBTQ+ youth advocates worry this could force students to come out to unsupportive families & put them at risk. Conversely, some argue that the law is needed because parents have a right to know.
Tennessee’s School Library Book Bans
Numerous states across America have banned books that officials claim are inappropriate—for example, the McMinn County School Board in Tennessee decided to remove “Maus” from its curriculum. It’s a Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel about the Holocaust that some parents argue is important to teach students about the past. But supporters of the ban were concerned about profanity & nudity in the book.
Oklahoma’s Restrictions on Diversity Training
Oklahoma’s House Bill 1775 went into effect in May 2021 and it bans mandatory diversity training related to gender or sexuality for students & staff. The policy also prohibits teaching that one race or sex is somehow superior to another. Critics say the law stops teachers from promoting diversity & inclusion in schools while supporters believe such discussions are not necessary for the classroom.
San Francisco’s Schools’ Shift to Equity Grading
Many schools in San Francisco have adopted “equity grading” practices which involve accepting late work without penalty & letting students redo assignments. The aim is to lessen the effects of systemic inequalities on students’ academic performance and advocates say it’s a fairer way to assess students. However, others worry it might lower academic standards & leave students unprepared for real-world expectations.
Chicago’s Sex Education Starting in Kindergarten
Sex education is yet another controversial and some schools, like those in Chicago, have changed their sex education policies. Recently, they introduced lessons on topics like consent, personal safety & gender identity—starting in kindergarten. The curriculum is meant to be age-appropriate and aims to encourage awareness from a young age. But opponents feel some subjects aren’t suitable for young children & should be taught by parents instead.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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