BROWN COUNTY — Brown County Schools says it is looking into a letter sent to parents and guardians of Sprunica Elementary School students this week that gives them the option to opt-out of lessons about Black history.
The form, shared with WRTV by a parent, asks parents to sign if they do not wish for their child to receive the lesson.
It reads, "Studies show that students who have a greater understanding of diversity in the classroom and outside world will demonstrate improved learning outcomes such as improved grades, better peer relationships, and greater career success later on. These lessons can provide a great impact on students and help facilitate a better learning environment for all.
MORE | Bill banning transgender girls from playing school sports in Indiana passes Senate committee
"If you would like your child to receive these lessons in class, then you do not have to do anything. If you would like to opt your child out for receiving these lessons, then sign the form below and have your child return it to the school to give to the teacher."
Brown County Schools Superintendent Emily Tracy issued a statement indicating the district is looking into the matter and does not allow students and parents to opt-out of its required curriculum.
She added that the district supports teaching "facts in our history including historical injustices."
MORE | Apartment residents face water and gas shutoff due to upaid bills by management
Tracy sent the following statement to WRTV:
Our district supports teaching about the facts in our history including historical injustices. We are and will continue to be committed to having compassion for all and supporting an education community that will allow all students, staff, families and community members the opportunity to feel welcome. We do not allow students and parents to opt out of required curriculum, including instruction on social studies and histories. Any decision related to parental consent and curriculum determinations are made in accordance with the law. We are looking into the matter to determine the justification for the language included in the letter. We will respond to any parental concerns on an individualized basis.
It's not clear exactly when the letter was sent.
Additional details were not immediately available.
-
No. 16 Indiana remains unbeaten with 69-58 win over UNC Greensboro
Myles Rice scored 14 of his 20 points in the first half, freshman Bryson Tucker finished with a season-high 14 and No. 16 Indiana got past UNC Greensboro 69-58 on Thursday night.
I have a frozen Thanksgiving turkey. When should I thaw it?
Do you have a large Thanksgiving turkey in your freezer taking up space? Learn when you should move it to the fridge.
Local Boy Scout thanks first responders with large popcorn donation
Thanking first responders who put their lives on the line for the community is what a local Boy Scout did through a donation to IMPD's Mobile Crisis Assistance Team.
New details emerge about the Department of Government Efficiency's proposed cuts
How much will the Department of Government Efficiency change the country's federal government? Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy are revealing new details about how it will work and how long it will take.
