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Public comment at SAUSD meeting centers on ethnic studies, pride flags and parental transparency
Summary
Dozens of speakers used the public comment period to debate ethnic studies requirements, pride flags, and district policies on transgender and nonbinary students; trustees said they will seek staff follow‑up and legal clarification where requested.
A lengthy public‑comment period at the Santa Ana Unified School District meeting brought sharply contrasting views on ethnic studies, pride flags and how the district communicates with families about gender identity and related supports.
Several public speakers urged the board to ensure parents are fully informed about curriculum and school practices. One commenter argued ethnic studies "labels" students and risks promoting division, saying materials felt familiar to ideologies from authoritarian systems. Another speaker objected to the district flying the rainbow flag and asked that the district fly religious flags as well to show "total inclusivity." (Speakers spoke from the public podium; quotes below are from speakers who self‑identified on the record.)
Other public commenters defended the board and district policy. A parent who identified herself as not representing a group thanked teachers and counselors for supporting her LGBTQ child and said that the district's priority should be students' safety and dignity. An audience speaker criticized earlier comments as echoing national talking points aimed at undermining public education and said the board's actions are intended to protect students and follow the law.
Board members acknowledged the intensity of the discussion and directed staff to provide follow‑up information. Trustee Lipsak asked for documentation of the district's community‑partner list and for clarity about which outside groups have access to students; Trustee Lebsack asked how the district will prevent undocumented students from accidentally registering to vote under a proposed civic‑engagement policy and requested a full review before voting on the policy.
The exchange included factual clarifications on law and practice: Dr. Alvarado (district counsel) and staff explained that, under state law and district confidentiality practices discussed during the meeting, students room on field trips by their gender identity and that the district generally cannot disclose a student's gender identity to parents because of confidentiality protections.
No board policy changes were adopted during public comment; trustees asked staff to return with answers and documentation at a future briefing.
