Parents outraged with LGBTQ studies in KPS, What the future may hold is shocking. — News Channel 10

EDUCATION

Andrew Cooper
2 min readJan 26, 2024
A shot of the Front-Side of Phoenix High School in the suburbs of Kalington.

By ANDREW HENNINGS

KALINGTON, MI — Parents and Legislators alike are currently outraged with the LGBTQIA+ studies being taught to students in the district. Many parents have complained about their children coming home, asking questions that relate The controversy surrounding LGBTQIA+ studies in schools has reached a boiling point, leaving parents and legislators in a state of outrage over what they perceive as an imposition of certain ideals on their children. Numerous complaints have been filed by parents who are distressed by their children coming home with inquiries about LGBTQIA+ topics discussed in the classroom, further fueling the flames of discontent within the community.

One major concern voiced by parents is the perceived imposition of these studies on students, with some going so far as to use the term “forced” to describe the exposure their children are experiencing. This sentiment has triggered a collective outcry among parents who argue that the school environment should not be a platform for such discussions, especially when it comes to topics that may conflict with their religious beliefs.

Amidst this uproar, Chair of the Channel 10 Network, Andrew Hennings, took the opportunity to delve into the issue by interviewing School Board Member, Dr. Dan Beck. Dr. Beck expressed his perspective on the matter, stating that he believes such studies are not worth the time of instructors or students. He suggested that if students wish to learn about LGBTQIA+ topics, they can pursue that knowledge at the college level, indicating a preference for a more mature and elective approach to these subjects.

Furthermore, Dr. Beck argued that comparing LGBTQIA+ history to other historically marginalized groups, such as women or Black individuals, is inappropriate and incomparable. This viewpoint raises questions about the unique nature of LGBTQIA+ studies and whether they should be treated differently within the educational curriculum.

In the face of the discontent expressed by parents, Dr. Beck disclosed that he would be supportive of a ban on teaching LGBTQIA+ studies in schools if such a proposal were put forward. This stance aligns with the concerns raised by parents who believe that introducing these studies into the curriculum is not only inappropriate but also infringes upon their rights to impart their religious beliefs to their children without interference.

As the debate rages on, the clash between the desire for inclusive education and the concerns of parents regarding religious beliefs highlights the ongoing struggle to strike a balance in creating a curriculum that respects diverse perspectives. The outcomes of this controversy will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the education system, as educators, parents, and legislators grapple with the question of how best to navigate the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ studies in the school curriculum

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