Last week, a federal judge denied a motion to reinstate opt-outs for LGBTQ+ storybooks in classrooms as a lawsuit continues.
“We are grateful and happy that we were able to be successful in the lawsuit,” Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Superintendent Dr. Monifa McKnight told MCM. “Our charge is to be able to continue to implement the policy.”
Judge Deborah Boardman ruled against a preliminary injunction, which would have required MCPS to allow opt-outs as the lawsuit goes on. A preliminary injunction hearing was held earlier this month.
Three families sued MCPS this year after, per the lawsuit, the school board reversed its rule allowing families to opt-out of classroom instruction about family life and human sexuality.
According to MCPS, state law dictates families can opt-out of specific classes on human growth and sexuality, but not other classes. The school system has chosen picture books involving LGBTQ+ for literacy classes for elementary schoolers.
According to Becket — the law firm representing MCPS families in the lawsuit — oral argument in the case is expected in the fall.
In a statement following the preliminary injunction ruling, Eric Baxter, vice president and senior counsel at Becket, said, “The court’s decision is an assault on children’s right to be guided by their parents on complex and sensitive issues regarding human sexuality. The School Board should let kids be kids and let parents decide how and when to best educate their own children consistent with their religious beliefs.”
