Rep. Cam Cavitt is spearheading a plan to improve parental rights in education. The plan would ensure parents’ ability to disallow schools from using students’ information without permission, increase transparency, and guarantee families are immediately notified of a threat against the school.

“Parental rights are key to a successful education system,” said Cavitt, R-Cheboygan. “Families should have complete access to the materials taught in school. Transparency guarantees our kids aren’t hit with radical ideas outside the scope of a normal education.”

The plan requires schools receive parental consent before collecting biometric data or using photos or videos of students. Schools would be required to contact families if any threat is levied against the school, including a crime committed by a district employee. Parents also would be guaranteed access to view any materials covered in class and all background information on teachers or guests in the classroom.

“If any threat is made against our children, parents should be the first to know,” Cavitt said. “Any form of bullying or threatening behavior can be traumatic for kids. Schools should notify parents so they can best support their children. Families should never find out about threats against their children around the dinner table.”

Cavitt, who introduced HB 5374, was joined by Rep. Luke Meerman, R-Coopersville, and Rep. Greg Markkanen, R-Hancock, in introducing this plan.

###