Forest Hills School Board Reverses Course on Controversial Resolution Amid Lawsuit Settlement

The Forest Hills School Board has voted to rescind a controversial resolution that prohibited teachers from creating assignments that asked students to consider societal factors such as race, socioeconomic class, religion, gender identity or sexuality. “The resolution banned curriculum, education and staff training on ‘Critical Race Theory, intersectionality, identity or anti-racism curriculum,'” according to a press release. The vote happened during a special meeting on Dec. 21.

The decision comes in the aftermath of a December lawsuit settlement linked to the resolution, known as the Resolution to Create a Culture of Kindness and Equal Opportunity. The district, while denying any wrongdoing, said it opted to resolve the matter to sidestep distractions from the “important business of educating children” and to mitigate the financial burden of ongoing litigation on taxpayers.

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Initiated by several FHSD parents in June 2022, the lawsuit targeted the district, board of education members and the then newly-appointed superintendent. It was filed just days after the school board passed the “Culture of Kindness” resolution,  which also prohibited schools from compelling individuals to admit privilege or oppression. Those filing the lawsuit argued that the resolution infringed upon their First and Fourteenth Amendment rights.

“The board’s action today reflects the strength and resolve of our community to stand up for what truly matters in our children’s education,” said Antonio Ciolino, a parent of three FHSD students and a plaintiff in the lawsuit. “This is a win for every student who felt unheard and for every teacher who strives to create an open, respectful classroom environment. This repeal is a step towards healing and rebuilding a school culture that is welcoming, diverse and conducive to learning for all students.“

The resolution, characterized by protests from both parents and students, led to the withdrawal of a superintendent candidate and ignited heated debates in multiple school board meetings throughout the past year.

“The intent and purpose of the resolution were to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. The board is confident that existing policies and administrative guidelines will be sufficient to ensure the district meets these obligations to the students, student’s parents and the community,” reads a statement from the district.

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This article appears in Dec 13-26, 2023.