New Jersey Governor Says State Will Clarify Sex Education Standards That Riled GOP
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Amidst the increasing controversy concerning the state’s new sex education standards, there has been intense scrutiny from certain parents, Republican lawmakers, and conservative media. However, Governor Phil Murphy defended the standards on Wednesday and assured that the state would provide further clarification on what children will be taught in public schools starting in the fall.
Governor Murphy attributed the controversy to partisan individuals attempting to divide parents. This announcement by the governor followed criticism from several GOP legislators who opposed the new standards. They even proposed legislation that would prohibit any instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation for young students.
In a statement, Murphy expressed, "I have instructed the Department of Education to review the standards and offer more clarity on age-appropriate guidelines for our students. My administration is dedicated to ensuring that all students are equipped with the necessary knowledge to lead healthy and productive lives now and in the future."
This controversy arises as several states nationwide aim to restrict discussions about LGBTQ issues in classrooms, largely influenced by a recent Florida law that limits instruction on gender and sexual orientation.
The new sex education standards in New Jersey were adopted by the state Board of Education in June 2020 and are set to be implemented starting from September. They expand the curriculum to include education on gender identity, sexual orientation, consent, and gender expression.
Parents retain the right to exclude their children from sex education lessons in New Jersey’s public schools.
Governor Murphy highlighted politicians who are trying to create divisions and gain political advantage by misrepresenting the extent of the new standards. State Senator Holly Schepisi (R-Bergen) recently shared sample sex education materials on Facebook, claiming that they "unnecessarily sexualize children." Officials clarify that those documents are merely examples of what schools can use and not part of the actual curriculum. Murphy stated that the materials shared by Schepisi do not align with the principles of the standards.
Murphy emphasized the importance of promoting inclusivity and respect for all children, including those who identify as LGBTQ, in public schools.
"In New Jersey, parents have always had and will always have a say in their child’s education, including the option to opt their child out of any health lesson that they prefer to discuss privately at home," he stated. "Any proposed educational content that is not suitable for a specific age group should be promptly revised by local officials."
Schepisi expressed her satisfaction with Murphy’s decision to provide more information to confused parents regarding the new standards. However, she disputed the accusation that she is spreading misinformation, pointing out that the documents she shared can be found on the state Department of Education website.
"Providing information to parents about ongoing developments while the state fails to offer sufficient guidance is not misinformation," she emphasized. "Parents need to remain actively involved and ensure that their voices are properly heard."
GOP senators have written a letter to Governor Murphy and state Senate President Nicholas Scutari (D-Union), requesting public hearings on the new standards and a delay in implementation. In the letter, they highlight that the expanded guidelines were adopted in June 2020, during the height of the pandemic.
Republicans and some parents have raised concerns about the potentially explicit nature of the proposed standards and the age at which topics such as gender identity, sexual orientation, and anatomy will be taught.
State Senator Vin Gopal (D-Monmouth), who chairs the Senate Education Committee, reviewed the documents at the center of the controversy and found nothing overtly objectionable. However, he called on Murphy to reassure parents about the new standards.
Gopal regarded Governor Murphy’s Wednesday statement as a "step in the right direction."
The Department of Education has not yet responded to requests for comment.
New Jersey Monitor is a part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus funded by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. New Jersey Monitor maintains its editorial independence. For any questions, please contact Editor Terrence McDonald at info@newjerseymonitor.com. Stay connected with New Jersey Monitor on Facebook and Twitter.
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