Policy 627-R Instruction of Controversial Topics Regulations

A “controversial topic” involves a topic about which an individual and/or group may urge the district to alter the discussion or learning of said topic in the schools. It may deal with a topic for which society has not found a solution, and it is of sufficient significance that all proposed ways of dealing with it arouses a contrary response, or it may involve a material that contains language or treatment of topics that are objectionable to the citizen challenging the topic.

A. The topic or material is related to the course of study or to relevant current events and provides opportunities for critical thinking, for developing tolerance, and for understanding conflicting points of view.

1. The topic or material should be developmentally appropriate for students in the respective class.

2. Discussion or study of an issue that is initiated by the students, should be related to relevant or current events, or the established curriculum.

3. The topic or material should contribute toward helping students develop techniques for examining other controversial topics or materials.

B. Available information about the topic or material is sufficient to allow alternative points of view to be discussed and evaluated on a factual basis.

1. Multiple sides of the topic or material are given a proper hearing, using established facts as primary evidence.

2. The topic or material has points of view which can be understood and defined by the students.

C. The teacher does not use their position to forward their own religious, political, economic or social bias. The teacher may express a personal opinion if they identify it as such and does not express their opinion for the purpose of persuading students to their point of view.

D. Any outside speaker shall be approved by the Principal or administrative designee prior to utilization of the speaker.

E. Upon the request of a student or parent/guardian, the student will be excused from class during a “controversial unit.” Alternative student learning may be provided as outlined in Policy 629, Alternative Student Learning.

F. The oral or written presentation of the topic or material does not violate state or federal law.

• 613: Instructional Material Review, Selection and Use
• 613-R: Instructional Material Review, Selection and Use Regulations
• 629: Alternative Student Learning Plan
• 629-R: Alternative Student Learning Plan Regulations
• 629 -R Form: Alternative Learning Plan Form

• Effective: April 9, 2007
• Modified: December 9, 2013
• Draft: September 25, 2018
• Amended: July 10, 2023
• Last Reviewed: July 10, 2023

• Policy 627-R Instruction of "Controversial Topics" Regulations