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Parent Notification of Instructional Materials
The Suffolk Public Schools School Board has adopted Policy 8-24.5 to establish clear procedures for schools to (i) identify all instructional materials with sexually explicit content, (ii) ensure parental notification of any instructional materials with sexually explicit content, (iii) permit parents to review all instructional materials with sexually explicit content, and (iv) ensure alternative instructional materials, that do not include sexually explicit content, are provided in a non-punitive manner for any student whose parent so requests.
Suffolk Public Schools recognizes that parents should guide their children in the selection of choice instructional resources, and there are times when a resource may not align with their family values. Prior to the start of the academic year, schools will identify specific instructional materials that include sexually explicit content which may be used during the upcoming school year. If a teacher intends to use any instructional material that has been identified as containing sexually explicit content, the school will notify the parent/guardian at least 30 days in advance. Parents/guardians who would like to review the material can contact the student's school. Parents/guardians who would like their students to be given alternate materials should complete the Parent/Guardian Opt-Out Form for Sexually Explicit Instructional Materials Form and return it to the classroom teacher at least one week in advance of the start of the original assignment.
The following documents include instructional materials intended for use in instruction that meet the definitions of sexually explicit content as outlined in Policy IIAV. These lists will be routinely updated as we continue to review new materials.
Division-Level Instructional Materials
Virtual Virginia List of Courses Containing SEC
Southwestern Elementary Instructional Material