Corrado’s ‘Parents Bill of Rights Act’ Affirms Parental Role in Education

As Trenton’s assault on parental rights rages on only months before a new, controversial school curriculum standard takes effect, Senator Kristin Corrado is fighting back with the “Parents Bill of Rights Act” she first introduced on Dec. 6, 2021.

“This legislation is even more poignant now that we have learned more about the Administration’s intention to disenfranchise parents from the education process,” said Corrado (R-40). “With this measure, the educational rights of parents are guaranteed, and family values are protected from government intrusion.”

The pending implementation of the state’s controversial new sex education standards, set to take effect next school year, goes too far, eliminating any role of parents in schooling, Corrado said.

“Parents are angry. They feel ignored, helpless, and frustrated,” Corrado said. “With parenting comes responsibilities, and Trenton bureaucrats are usurping that authority and relegating Moms and Dads to spectators in the raising of their children.

“The role of parents is sacrosanct, and they should have a say in every aspect of the education of their children,” Corrado continued. “My ‘Parents Bill of Rights Act’ will empower parents and get them off the bench and back in the game.”

Under Corrado’s bill, initially introduced as S-4234 in the previous Legislative Session, parents would be granted the fundamental right to engage in and direct their child’s education, including being able to opt their children out of any curriculum that conflicts with their conscience, or moral or religious beliefs.

Parents also would have the right to a summary of the curriculum to be taught to their child in the current school year; to review that curriculum; and review a complete list of the media services, textbooks and workbooks that are used in the classroom or are available to students through the school district.

“New Jersey should be working to find more ways to get parents involved, not trying to lock them out,” Corrado said. “Education should never be ‘one size fits all.’ Every child is different and has different needs and requirements.

“Any student’s academic development is bolstered by the active participation of a caring parent or family member who knows the child better than anyone else,” noted Corrado.

The Senator will introduce her “Parents Bill of Rights Act” at the next Senate Quorum in Trenton.