This is a press release from the New Jersey Family Policy Center, which is asking the State Board of Education to amend its policy that orders schools to separate students during Health and Physical Education based on gender identity. NJFPC wants students to be separated by “biological sex.” The Center also notes that the State Board has not met in person since March 2020 and asks it resume public meetings.

The New Jersey Family Policy Center– a pro-family ministry – resubmitted their letter to the New Jersey State Board of Education today on behalf of parents across the state that are troubled by the proposal of the Board to amend 6A:7-1.7 [Equality] Equity in school and classroom practices.

If amended, the statewide policy would force schools that have decided to separate students for certain Health and Physical Education lessons to do so based on gender identity. 

2.(b) i. Portions of classes that deal exclusively with human sexuality may be conducted in separate developmentally appropriate sessions [for male and female students] based on gender identity, provided the course content for such separately conducted sessions is the same;

Proposed amended language (above) removes the requirement that schools use biological sex, and instead mandates these schools separate students based upon their self-selected gender identity. This is particularly problematic in elementary grades that focus on biologically based puberty and physical growth and development. The initial discussion of this proposed amendment caused a contentious discussion among state board of education members at the December 7, 2022 monthly meeting. 

“Allowing biological male and female children to participate in a mixed class where their biological development is discussed does a great disservice to adolescents during this often-awkward transition into young adults.”

Allan Wright, Executive Director, New Jersey Family Policy Center

New Jersey Family Policy Center (NJFPC) is concerned from a health perspective, that students need to learn about their sex’s biological reproductive system and be encouraged to understand and take proper care of their anatomy. The NJFPC has serious concerns that this will hinder students from asking questions and seeking clarification on important information regarding their body’s anatomy and physiology.

“The relationship among educators, school boards, parents, and the Department of Education will further be damaged if not irrevocably harmed by this proposed objectionable policy. We strongly believe local families, voters, and education stakeholders should discuss and decide how to best serve all families and students in their community.” 

Shawn Hyland, Director of Advocacy, New Jersey Family Policy Center

New Jersey Family Policy Center hopes the New Jersey State Board of Education rejects this proposed amendment and allows schools to continue making local education decisions. 

Those interested can read the complete letter that has been submitted to the New Jersey State Board of Education. 945 parents have submitted this letter and their own comments through the NJFPC Action Alert Advocacy System.  

The New Jersey State Board of Education has not met in public since the beginning of Covid in 2020. The NJDOE website states that “public testimony has been suspended until further notice.” New Jersey Family Policy Center urges the NJ State Board of Education to allow parents access to give oral testimony before the Board. Legislative committees, town councils, and local boards of education throughout the state continue to hold public access meetings.