During a recent North Clackamas School District board meeting, community members voiced strong concerns regarding comments made by board member April Dobson, who is also a candidate for state representative. Michael Corbis, a local resident, criticized Dobson's social media post that stated, \"If your parents aren't accepting of your identity, I'm your mom now,\" raising alarms about parental rights and the role of educators in children's lives.

Corbis expressed his belief that parents should have the primary say in their children's upbringing, regardless of political affiliation. He questioned the legality of Dobson's comments, particularly regarding the implications of providing medical advice to minors without parental consent. He emphasized the importance of maintaining respectful dialogue among community members, even when disagreements arise.

Another parent, Christopher Polk, echoed concerns about the school board's policies, specifically criticizing the implementation of a device management system that restricts student access to personal devices during school hours. Polk argued that while classrooms should be free of distractions, parents should have the ability to communicate with their children when necessary, especially in urgent situations.

Tricia Britton, a West Linn resident, also addressed the board, highlighting the potential harm of Dobson's comments. She argued that such statements could foster mistrust between parents and the school, undermining the collaborative relationship that is essential for student success. Britton called for accountability among public officials, urging the board to prioritize parental rights and family dynamics in their decision-making processes.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a growing tension within the community regarding the balance of authority between parents and school officials, particularly in matters related to student identity and well-being. As the board navigates these complex issues, the voices of concerned parents continue to call for a focus on collaboration and respect for family roles in education.