house resolution no.210

Reps. Outman, Steven Johnson, Bezotte, Eisen, Slagh, Clements, Damoose, Maddock, Fink, Bollin, Roth and Yaroch offered the following resolution:

A resolution to affirm our commitment to the inalienable rights of parents to direct the education of their children.

Whereas, The fundamental right of parents over the upbringing of their children has been unequivocally established in the United States. Parents are in the best position to know their own child’s needs and circumstances, and therefore, should maintain authority over all decisions that could impact the health and well-being of their children; and

Whereas, Education remains a critical part of any child’s upbringing. Michigan law recognizes that “it is the natural, fundamental right of parents and legal guardians to determine and direct the care, teaching, and education of their children.” Public schools are designed to listen to and respect the wishes of parents in the development of academic standards and curricula; and

Whereas, It has been long standing in Michigan that parents have a voice in the education of their children. The Michigan Revised School Code provides, “the public schools of this state serve the needs of the pupils by cooperating with the pupil’s parents and legal guardians to develop the pupil’s intellectual capabilities and vocational skills in a safe and positive environment”; and

Whereas, Education systems across the country have been infringing on parents’ rights over their children’s education. For example, radical politics have permeated public school curricula, resulting in education that amounts to political indoctrination. In addition, parents who try to object are either shamed or silenced into submission; and

Whereas, Parents have the right to ensure that their children are receiving appropriate education that is founded in historical fact, not ideology. It is essential that parents’ voices are respected and incorporated into the development of academic curricula; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we affirm our commitment to the inalienable rights of parents to direct the education of their children; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor, the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, and the State Board of Education.