Proposed Policy Change Riles Haddonfield Parents, Educators

HADDONFIELD, NJ — A review of Haddonfield Board of Education Policy 2240, titled "Controversial Issues," spurred debate among parents and educators attending the May 12 Haddonfield School District Board Meeting.

The current version of Policy 2240 acknowledges some straying from curriculum guides is "necessary." The policy goes on to state that any such straying "shall be conducted in an unprejudiced and dispassionate manner" that does not, among other things "disrupt the educational process [and] fail to match the maturity level of the pupils."

The debate at the May 12 school board meeting between parents and educators indicated that controlling what educators say in the classroom has its supporters and its adversaries.

For instance, public school teacher Kathleen DiCristafaro felt educators should have the freedom to discuss whatever they want in the classroom.

"In a world where algorithms determine [children's] social feeds, I want them to know what other people think ... I'm also relieved that a teacher may share their personal opinion within the context of the debate," she said. "People cannot be afraid of students' learning, civil discourse and the rigorous tasks of vetting information for truth in both the mind and heart."

Conversely, resident Kathy Harting felt educators should have limits on what is said in the classroom.

"Allowing teachers' opinions to be included in their lessons, knowing the power of their authority, and sometimes admiration their students hold for them is not okay," she said. "Teachers should be teaching and of course, nurturing. But sharing their opinions, their political views, or what they think about a student's faith or gender identity does not belong in a classroom setting. It is over the line and completely unacceptable."

About a dozen people, with roughly half on DiCristafaro's side and roughly the other half on Harting's side, gave their viewpoint on what educators can and cannot say in the classroom.

Most speakers were applauded after giving their respective viewpoints.

The school board did not make any changes to Policy 2240 at the May 12 meeting.

The school board's next meeting is on June 23 at 7 p.m. in the high school's library.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to correct the spelling of Harting's name and part of her comment. The editor regrets the errors.

Got a news tip? Story idea? Send me an email with the details at janel.miller@patch.com.