Its focus, homosexuality, is kind of an emotionally laden distraction that hides its problems. If we replace that word with “Topic X”, its flaws are easier to see, that it’s trying to control what teachers can discuss with students.

The Bible is definitely one of the foundation documents of Western civilization. Not covering it is like not covering Shakespeare.

I had a good class on Bible studies in school back in the day. I am not sure all parents would be thrilled to have a good Bible class taught. First thing I remember was reviewing papers about linguistic style analyses that showed that there were three different editors that contributed to Genesis, this material could prove controversial to some parents.

If studying religious influences on the development of civilization, the Koran, Bhagavad Gita, and writings of Confucius should be included as well. This could also provide to be a can of worms to the folks initially most enthusiastic about a Bible class.

No – technically, the bill doesn’t ban discussion. However, there has been a great deal of debate over how banning “instruction” might include “teachable moments.” If the subject matter is introduced, can we discuss this in class? If the discussion were led by an instructor – would this count as “instruction?”

Grrr “technically” is such a problematic word – and seems to always mean “but open for interpretation.” For this reason I don’t think we should be legislating either way. Either way, we restrict or eliminate parental/personal choice. So ABSOLUTELY these things stay at a local level. If the system opts to address any issue, which may be controversial. then send home an outline of the curriculum and a permission slip. Thereby leaving the decision in the hands of the parent.

Of course, you’d want to keep in mind that this is the viewpoint of a gal who truly believes high school students should be allowed to study the Bible as a historical text with student-led discussions on translation, interpretation, why they vary and how religion has influenced society.

Technically it doesn’t prohibit discussion, just instruction or dissemination of materials:

“no public elementary or middle school shall permit
any instruction or materials discussing sexual orientation other than heterosexuality”

So if it comes up you could still talk about it, but Heather Has Two Mommies would have to be sent from the library to the incinerator.

Essentially this bill puts homosexuality and prayer on the same level playing field. The teacher can’t lead the class in prayer, but they can pray on their own.

State or federal laws telling schools what sorts of books are prohibited is seldom a good idea. It’s better to leave it up to the individual school districts to do what they think is best.

That said, I think if a teacher wants to bring in a team full of gay activists to lead a day’s lessons in safe ways to do gay sex, written parental permission should be obtained in advance.