Public commenters press board on parental rights, DEI, SEL and transgender issues

During the meeting’s public comment period, several community members asked the Sumner Bonney Lake School District board to address parental rights and to review or reconsider district practices related to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), social-emotional learning (SEL), and transgender youth.

Terry McCoy opened public comment by asking the board to consider when “you become a parent” and when those rights are limited. McCoy cited state statute language, saying “According to RCW 28A.605.005, it’s the parents,” and raised concern that proposed changes in Senate Bill 5181 could reduce protections she described as established last year.

Donna Oravis, joining virtually, said she is concerned about what she described as “transgender indoctrination” in K–12 settings and urged counseling and different clinical approaches for children she said are struggling with gender identity. Oravis said she hoped the district and board would “stand up for the truth” and requested future board dialogue on the subject.

Local speakers Kelly McClimans and Teresa McClimans urged that the board and staff be trained in cultural competency required by state law; Kelly cited a Revised Code of Washington section during her remarks and encouraged the board to make sure staff training addresses cultural differences and community norms.

Board members did not respond directly to individual public-comment allegations during the meeting; the board’s public comment procedures were read aloud at the start of the period, noting comments will be taken under advisement and typically will not receive an immediate response. The board did not take action on the issues raised at this meeting; speakers requested future dialogue and action.