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Chino Valley board discusses parental opt-out for books after recent Supreme Court ruling; no policy vote taken
Summary
Board members reviewed existing controversial‑materials and supplemental‑instruction policies in light of a recent Supreme Court decision and discussed adding explicit language to clarify parents' opt‑out rights. The board took no formal action at the July meeting.
Trustees of the Chino Valley Unified School District reviewed district policies about supplemental instructional materials and controversial issues after a recent Supreme Court ruling that speakers said strengthened parents' rights. District staff described the current opt‑out process and trustees debated whether to add explicit language referencing the court decision.
Nut graf: The discussion examined how teachers use supplementary materials, the district’s current notification and opt‑out timelines and whether policies should be revised to reference the new court decision. No binding policy change was adopted; the board directed staff to draft language for future consideration.
Dr. Enfield asked Dr. Fried to review two policies. Dr. Fried summarized the current process: teachers must preview supplementary materials and obtain site‑principal approval; materials used for supplementary instruction must be directly related to curriculum; supplemental or controversial materials require principal approval and written parent/guardian notification. "The parents or guardians will be given 15 school days to respond," Dr. Fried said.
Board members reacted differently. Board President Michelle Shaw called the ruling "a huge win for parents" and said it is "common sense" to allow opt‑outs; she asked staff to strengthen policy language and remind teachers about notification requirements. Trustee Mr. Nha (Na) said adding the Supreme Court case to policy would help clarify misunderstandings. Trustee Mr. Zavontis said he supports parents' right to know and decide what their children are taught.
Discussion vs. decision: The item was listed as a discussion item; the board explicitly noted that, "in accordance with the Brown Act, no action will be taken on this item at this meeting." Trustees asked staff to draft policy language adding a reference to the Supreme Court decision so the board can consider formal changes at a later meeting.
Ending: Superintendent Enfield and staff will prepare recommended revisions for future board consideration; the board did not adopt new language during the July session.
