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Kevin T. Snider, State Bar No. 170988


Matthew B. McReynolds, State Bar No. 234797
2 PACIFIC JUSTICE INSTITUTE
212 9th St., Ste. 208
FFLE.
ALAMEDA COUNTY
3 Oakland, CA 94607
Tel. (510) 834-7232 AUG 1 `1.1 Z00.9
4 Fax (916) 857-6902
CLERK or MI5 Cirviirf URT
5 kevinsniderapacificiustice.org
matuncrevnolds@pacificjustice.org ey.
6
Attorneys for Petitioners
7
8 SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA

9 COUNTY OF ALAMEDA

10 AISHA BALDE, JOLENE CHAN, ) Case N t3 4 d 8 6 '3 7


TOMMY CHEUNG, DANIEL CHIN, )
11 HANFORD CHIU, RICHARD CLARK, )
) VERIFIED PETITION FOR WRIT OF
DIANE CLARK, MIKEL DEL ) MANDAMUS AND DECLARATORY
12
ROSARIO, ARCHIE FELIX, J'AIME ) RELIEF
13 FELIX, WENDY FONG, SUE FUNG, )
MARIA GUADALUPE GOMEZ, JUDY)
14 JOHANSING, DANLIN LI, KERRI )
LONERGAN, MATT LONERGAN, )
15 LINDA MORGAN, JONATHAN )
STAIRS, and VICKI STAIRS, )
16 )
Petitioners, )
17 v. )
)
18 ALAMEDAUNIFIED SCHOOL ) Date:
) Time:
DISTRICT, KIRSTEN VITAL,
19 SUPERINTENDENT, in her official ) Dept.:
S Hon.:
20 capacity.
)
)
21 Respondents. )

22
Introduction
23
24 Petitioners apply for an issuance of a writ of mandate under Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 1085

25 to require Respondent to excuse students, upon written request of the parent or guardian, from that

26 portion of Safe School Community Curriculum that conflict with their religious training and beliefs

27 and personal moral convictions as per section 51240 of the California Education Code.

28
Verified Petition for Writ of Mandamus

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Parties
1
2 1. Petitioner, AISHA BALDE, is a parent of children who will be enrolled in a school
3 which is under the jurisdiction of the Alameda Unified School District ("AUSD") during the
4 2009-2010 school year.
5 2. Petitioners, JOLENE CHAN and TOMMY CHEUNG, are the parents of a child
6 who will be enrolled in a school which is under the jurisdiction of AUSD during the 2009-2010
7 school year. As parents of said child, they file this petition jointly.
8 3. Petitioner, DANIEL CHIN, is the parent of a child who will be enrolled in a school
9 which is under the jurisdiction of AUSD during the 2009-2010 school year.
10 4. Petitioner, HANFORD CHILI, is the parent of children who will be enrolled in a
11 school which is under the jurisdiction of AUSD during the 2009-2010 school year.
12 5. Petitioner, JUDY JOHANSING, is the parent of a child who will be enrolled in a
13 school which is under the jurisdiction of AUSD during the 2009-2010 school year.
14 6. Petitioners, ARCHIE FELIX and J'AIME FELIX are the parents of a child who

15 will be enrolled in a school which is under the jurisdiction of AUSD during the 2009-2010 school

16 year. As parents of said child, they file this petition jointly.

17 7. Petitioners, RICHARD CLARK and DIANE CLARK are the parents of a child

18 who will be enrolled in a school which is under the jurisdiction of AUSD during the 2009-2010

19 school year. As parents of said child, they file this petition jointly.

20 8. Petitioners, ARCHIE FELIX and J'AIME are the parents of children who will be

21 enrolled in a school which is under the jurisdiction of AUSD during the 2009-2010 school year.

22 As parents of said children, they file this petition jointly.

23 9. Petitioner, MARIA GUADALUPE GOMEZ, is the parent of a child who will be

24 enrolled in a school which is under the jurisdiction of AUSD during the 2009-2010 school year.

25 10. Petitioner; MIKEL DEL ROSARIO, is the parent of a child who will be enrolled in

26 a school which is under the jurisdiction of AUSD during the 2009-2010 school year.

27 11. Petitioner, WENDY FONG, is the parent of a child who will be enrolled in a schoo l

28
Verified Petition for Writ of Mandamus
1 which is under the jurisdiction of AUSD during the 2009-2010 school year.
2 12. Petitioners, DANLIN LI and SUE FLING, is the parent ofa child who will be
3 enrolled in a school which is under the jurisdiction of AUSD during the 2009-2010 school year.
4 As parents of said children, they file this petition jointly.

5 13. Petitioners, KERRI LONERGAN and MATT LONERGAN ARCHIE FELIX and

6 J'AIME are the parents of children who will be enrolled in a school which is under the

7 jurisdiction of AUSD during the 2009-2010 school year. As parents of said children, they file this

8 petition jointly.

9 14. Petitioner, LINDA MORGAN, is the parent of children who will be enrolled in a

10 school which is under the jurisdiction of AUSD during the 2009-2010 school year.

11 15. Petitioners, JONATHAN STARS, and VICKI STAIRS are the parents of children

12 who will be enrolled in a school which is under the jurisdiction of AUSD during the 2009-2010

13 school year. As parents of said children, they file this petition jointly.

14 16. Respondent Alameda Unified School Disltict is a unified school district as defined

15 under Education Code §83 and is a school established pursuant to Article IX, §6, of the California

16 Constitution.
17. Respondent, KIRSTEN VITAL ("Superintendent Vital") is the Superintendent of
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AUSD, is an employee of AUSD and serves as AUSD's chief executive officer whose duties
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include the implementation of AUSD curriculum in accordance with the California Education
19
Code.
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Jurisdiction and Venue
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18. This action arises under Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 1085.
23
19. Venue is proper in this Court because the principle place of business of the
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Respondent is in Alameda County and the actions complained of occurred within this county.
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Statement of Facts
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20. On May 26, 2009, the AUSD Board of Education adopted the Safe School
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Verified Petition for Writ of Mandamus
1 Community Curriculum — Lesson 9, also know as the Caring School Community supplement,
2 Lesson 9, for the 2009-2010 school year. (For ease of reference the curriculum will be referred to

3 as "Lesson 9"). The purported purpose of the curriculum is to teach safety and tolerance in the

4 classroom A true and correct copy of the relevant portion of the approved curriculum is attached
and marked as Exhibit 1). At issue is what the school has identified as Lesson 9: Lesbian, Gay,

6 Bisexual, Transgender ("LGBT") instruction.

7 21. The grades K-2 portion of the Lesson 9 curriculum begins with instructions on how

8 to teach students about what makes other students feel welcome in a new school. (Exhibit 1, pg

9 62). However, by grades K-3 the lesson soon moves on to a discussion about what constitutes a

10 family. (Exhibit 1, pg. 65).

11 22. The stated objectives for the K-3 portion of the curriculum are for students to be

12 able to 1) "identify what makes a family" 2) "identify and describe a variety of families" and 3)

13 "understand that families have some similarities and some differences." (Exhibit 1, pg 65).

14 Students are also asked to learn "what family members give or share with one another" and the

15 responsibilities various family members have within their families. (Exhibit 1, pg. 66).

16 23. The objectives of the K-3 lessons are expanded upon in the grades 1-3 lessons that
follow. In grades 1- 3, students are asked to discuss different family structures with particular care
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to be "inclusive of gay and lesbian parents." (Exhibit 1, pg.68) Students are then required to read,
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And Tango Makes Three, a book about two male Chinstrap Penguins who "fall in love and with
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the help of their keeper, Mr. Gramzay, become fathers to Tango (another male penguin)." The
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curriculum states that this book is required reading in order to illustrate to students the "beauty of
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diverse families." (Exhibit 1, pg. 68). Throughout all of this, students are asked to remember that
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"every person gets to decide who their family is" (Exhibit 1, pg. 67).
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24. Petitioners' religious training and beliefs and personal moral beliefs are
inconsistent with the curriculum's instruction on the characteristics of families. As such, the
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current curriculum would serve to undermine Petitioners' ability to provide moral and religious
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training to their children according to their own beliefs. As a result, Petitioners provided written
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Verified Petition for rit of Mandamus
1 notification to the Respondents pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code
2 requesting to be excused from Lesson 9. Section 51240 of the Education Code which states in full

3 as follows:

4 "(a) If any part of a school's instruction in health conflicts with the religious
training and beliefs of a parent or guardian of a pupil, the • pupil, upon written
5
request of the parent or guardian, shall be excused from the part of the instruction
6 that conflicts with the religious training and beliefs.
(b) For purposes of this section, "religious training and beliefs" includes personal
7 moral convictions."
8 A true and correct copy of Petitioners' requests are attached and marked as "Exhibit 2."
9 25. The attorney for Petitioners sent a letter to the Superintendent of AUSD,
10 Respondent Kirsten Vital, in which the Respondents were notified that Lesson 9 falls under the

11 Health Education Content Standards for California Public Schools, Kindergarten Through Grade
12 Twelve's definition of Health studies. Because Lesson 9 constitutes instruction that conflicts with
13 Petitioners' religious training and beliefs and personal moral convictions, Petitioners were entitled

14 to have their children excused from classes in which the above mentioned materials would be

15 covered. (A true and correct copy of said letter is attached and marked as "Exhibit 3").

16 26. AUSD has responded by letter from Superintendent Vital in which the request to be

17 excused has been denied. Respondents have refused and continue to refuse to comply with the

18 mandate of the statute. (A true and c,on-ect copy of the letters received is attached and marked as

19 "Exhibit 4").

20 27. The letter states in pertinent part as follows:

21 "On May 26, 2009 the Board of Education approved the motion to
adopt the Caring School Community curriculum supplement, Lesson
22 9 as part of its Safe School Community program. Lesson 9
23 addresses issues of sexual orientation / gender identity. The Board's
motion and approval did not provide an opt out option."
24
28. In their letter, Respondents have not contested Petitioners' position that esson 9
25
falls within the scope of Health Education.
26 Petitioners' letters stated that if e request to opt their children out of Lesson 9 was
29.
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Verified Petition for Writ of Mandamus

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I denied, that AUSD was to "provide a complete description, including forms or other written

2 materials, for exhausting administrative remedies." Said request for written materials was made

3 under the California Public Records Act (Gov. Code. § 6250, et seq.) In that no description or

4 forms for exhausting administrative remedies was provided, Petitioners have exhausted their

5 administrative remedies. In the alternative, because the Respondents have failed to assert that any

6 administrative remedies are available, Respondents have either waived this procedure or have

7 determined that this procedure would be meaningless.

8
9 FIRST CAUSE OF ACTION FOR WRIT OF MANDAMUS

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30. The foregoing paragraphs 1-29 are incorporated herein by reference as though fully

12 set forth.

13 31. Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As such, pursuant to

14 section 51240 of the California Education Code, parents have the right, upon written request, to

15 have their children excused from the parts of the Safe School Community Curriculum that conflict
with Petitioners' religious training and beliefs and personal moral convictions.
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32. Petitioners have submitted the required written requests to have their children
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removed from the LGBT instruction within Safe School Community Curriculum that conflict with
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their religious training and moral convictions and personal moral convictions.
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33. Petitioners are beneficially interested in having AUSD comply with section 51240
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of the California Education Code.
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34. Respondents, and each of them, have refused to comply oners' request in
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violation of section 51240 of the California Education Code.
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35. Respondents have the ability to comply with Petitioners' request.
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36. Petitioners petition this Court to issue a writ of mandamus, requiring Respondents
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to comply with Petitioners' written requests and excuse Petitioners' children from the parts of the
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Safe School Community Curriculum that conflict with their religious training and beliefs or
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Verified Petition for Writ of Mandamus

1 persOnal moral convictions.
2 37. The issuance of the writ is indispensable to the enforcement of the Petitioners' right
3 in that Petitioners have no plain, speedy, or adequate remedy in the ordinary course of law
4 whereby their rights can be upheld or whereby Respondents can be compelled to comply with
5 Section 51240. If the relief sought by this petition is not granted, great and irreparable injury will

6 be caused to Petitioners.

7
8 PRAYER

9 WHEREFORE, Petitioners therefore request relief as follows:


10 1. That the Court issue an alternative Writ of Mandamus commanding Respondents to
11 comply with Cal.Educ.Code § 51240 or to show cause before this Court, at a time specified by
12 Court order, why it has not done so and why a peremptory writ should not issue;
13 2. That, on the return of the alternative writ and the hearing of this Petition, this Court
14 issue its peremptory Writ of Mandamus commanding Respondent to excuse students, upon written
15 request of the parent or guardian, from the parts of Safe School Community Curriculum that
16 conflict with their religious training and beliefs, including personal moral convictions.
17 3. For reasonable attorney fees;
18 4. For taxable costs of suit incurred herein;
19 5. For such other and further relief as the Court deems just and proper.
Dated: August 11, 2009
20
By
21 Kevin T. Snider
Matthew B. McReynolds
22 PACIFIC JUSTICE INSTITUTE
212 9th St., Ste. 208
23 Oakland, CA 94607
24 Tel. (510) 834-7232
Fax (916) 857-6902
25 kevinsnider@pacificjustice.org
mattmcreynoldsapacificjustice.org
26
27 Attorneys for Petitioners

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Verified Petition for Writ of Mandamus
PHONE No. : 510 523 1344 Aug. 11 2009 1 • 58PM P01
From DR. DANIEL CHIN, OPTOMETOT

VE RIFICATiON

2
3 11 )8v e (,) , :4111 One Of the Petitioners in the above-captioned

4 mailer. I have read the VERIFIED PETITION FOR WRIT Ol e MANDAMUS AND

1.ARATORY RULJLW and am familiar with wan% The contents RTC: true and nectarine and
6 known to me by personal knowledge except for those Mutters asserted on information and belief,
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AN to those matters, I believe them to be true.
8
9 I declare under penalty of perjury, under the laws of the State of California, that the
foregoing is true and coned. EXCOACC.1 this ‘i day of 11/407 , 2009, in the County of Mauled;

11 City of kpimeota„,, , Suite of Califinnia,

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Writiod Petition for Will of Mondoinui:
G&L PLUMBING. 521 5997
-510 a p.1

VERIFICATION

2
I/16N Ft
t-W4Ifil
t- , am one of the Petitioners in the above-captioned
3

4 matter. I have read the VERIFIED PETITION FOR WRIT OF MANDAMUS AND

5 DECLARATORY RELIEF and am familiar with same. The contents are true and accurate and
6 known to me by personal knowledge except for those matters asserted on information and belief.
7
As to those matters, I believe them to be true.
8

9 I declare wider penalty of perjury, under the laws of the State of California, that the

10 foregoing is ITue and correct. Executed this Al day oftjwt,2009, in thpCöinty of Alameda,
it / P

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City o ye-,;,(xe /a , State of California.

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Verified Petition for Writ of Mandamus
1 VERIFICATION
2
I, Jonathan H. Stairs, am one of the Petitioners in the above-captioned matter. I have read
3
4 the VERIFIED PETITION FOR WRIT OF MANDAMUS AND DECLARATORY RELIEF and

5 am familiar with same. The contents are true and accurate and known to me by personal
6 knowledge except for those matters asserted on infonuation and belief. As to those matters, I
7 believe them to be true.
8
9 I declare under penalty of perjury, under the laws of the State of California, that the
foregoing is true and correct. Executed this 10 th day of August 2009, in the County of Hardin,
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City of Savannah, State of Tennessee where I am attending training. My residence continues to be
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in the County of Alameda, City of Alameda, State of California.
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Verified Petition for Writ of an us

-a-
Lesson 1:
•Paps&
A WELCOMING CLASSROOM
Grades K-2

01,70.
Students in the film talked aBout how negative references about 1GBT people
are used as put-downs from early elementary school through middle schooi.
The teachers highlighted in the film set a tone where such put-downs are
not acceptable and where conversations about LW people could happen in
an atmosphere of respect. The following lesson, excerpted with permission
from the Welcoming Schools Guide (2007), a publication of the Human Rights
Campaign Foundation's Family Project is a good introductory lesson to help
students understand what makes people feel welcome and the effect of
hurtful teasing, name-calling and exclusion.

Goals
Froth The Film • To create a more welcoming classroom.
"I think the neat thing
about this issue is that • Students will understand what makes them and other children feel wel-
its already there—its come or unwelcome in school.
already in the classrooms. The kids are
already thinking about it. There's ways to Objectives
just start it off with [talking about) name • Students will listen to the story The New Girl...and Me and talk about
calling, with a book, with talking about feelings.
famous gay and lesbian people. There's
• Students will apply that discussion to their own experiences.
ways that are pretty standard, elementary
curriculum across this country, which, • Students will be able to give examples of what makes them feel welcome
with a little inventiveness and a little risk, or unwelcome in school.
you can start going on." —Daithl Wolfe,
third-grade teacher in It's Elementary Time Required
One 45-minute session or tWo 30-minute sessions.

Materials
Chart paper and markers, drawing paper, markers or crayons for drawing,
pencils.

Required Books
The New Girl...and Me by Jacqui Robbins, illustrations by Matt Phelan
(Antheneum Books for Young Readers, 2006). Two girls become friends when
Shakeeta boasts that she has an iguana named lgabelle at home and Mia
learns how to help Shakeeta "feel at home."

Page 62 et: Elementary


ACTIVITY 1: Defining "welcome" and "unwelcome"

• Talk with your students about what the words "welcome" and "unwel-
come' mean. You may choose to ask the students what they think "wel-
come" and "unwelcome" mean or you may give the student a definition
of the words.

Welcome: When you feel good/comfortable about where you are and
the people you are with.
Unwelcome: When you do not feel good/comfortable about where
you are or the people you are with.
The teacher in the book The New Girl...and Me uses the phrase "make
her feel at home." You may want to say that the phrase, "Make her
feel at home" means the same thing as make her feel welcome.
• .Read the book The New Girt ..andMe.

• After reading the book initiate a discussion by asking your students:


» Has anyone ever seen an iguana? What did it look like? What did
it eat?
3) What did Di do or say that made Shakeeta feel unwelcome or "not
at home?
» When DJ told Shakeeta that she looked like an iguana, what did other
people in the class do?
» How do you think Shakeeta felt when children in her class laughed at
al's comment?
» What did Mia do that helped Shakeeta feel welcome?
» How do you think mia felt after she talked to Shakeeta?

• Ask the students to give examples of when they feel unwelcome. Prompt
them to include what makes them feel unwelcome at school. Prompt them
to include name-calling and hurtful teasing if they do not bring it up. Re-
cord their responses on a chart entitled I Fee/ Unwelcome When...

• Review the chart together, then read some of the responses aloud, and
ask your students, "What does It feel like when you feel unwelcome?" You
can prompt them to think more about how it feels by using some of the
examples that are on the chart. For example, you can say, "How does it feel
when someone calls you a name?"

• Next, ask the students to give examples of when they feel welcome. Prompt
them to include what other students, teachers and administrators do that
helps them feel welcome. Record their responses on a chart entitled I Feel
Welcome When...
4
• Review the chart together, read some of the responses, then ask your stu-
dents, "What does it feel like when you feel welcome?"

Ws Elementary Page 63
ACTIVITY 2: Student Responses

• Using the writing prompt "1 can help others Feel welcome by..." have stu-
dents draw a welcoming picture and write a response.
• Display the pictures around the room or in the hall near your classroom OR
turn the responses into a class book.

From The Film •


"I don't think that Ws TEACHING NOTES
appropriate that values
on' be taught at home. Mod if ications
There are social values as well. There are If needed, arrange to take dictation from individual students.
community values. And Mien you allow • Other suggested books to read: Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes
a child on a playground to hurl an insult (1991), Oliver Button is a Sissy by Tomie dePaola (1979) or The Sissy
at another child Or to say, 'your mom Duckling by Harvey Fierstein (20021.,
is queer or to say those sorts of things
without addressing the issues is I think Extension Activities
unconscionable. What's the message the Community Building Brainstorm with your students what could
child gets? The child gets the message, make their classroom and school feel more welcoming. From this list,
'my teachers would step In if it was have the students pick an action that they could take. Make a plan and
carry h out.
wrong, my teachers would—they know,
my teachers would do something."
Welcoming Classroom Chart Label a piece of chart paper, "Our Wel-
—Woody Price, headmaster, in It's
coming Classroom" and post it on the wall. When you notice students
Elementary
doing something to make a more welcoming classroom, add their
name and what they did to the chart

Credit This lesson is based on some ideas from I Feel WeicometUnweicome In: Froschl, merle, and
Barbara Sprung. and Nancy Mullinaindler with Nan Stein and Nancy Grouper. Quit It?: A Teacher's
Guide on Teaiing and Bullying for Use with Students in Grades K-3. Educational Equity Concepts,
Inc., Wellesley College Center for Research on Women, NEA Professional Library, 1998,

Fmgc..- Cal Eir.r.: Emmen


Lesson t

GAY AND LESBIAN PARENTS AND


GUARDIANS IN CHILDREN'S
LITERATURE
tb.ades Ilt^3

giA:t

In the film, first- and second-grade teachers read the book Asha's Mums to their
students. The book is about a girl who does not know what to do when her
teacher does not believe that she has two mothers. Class discussions following
the reading of the book touch on themes of empathy and friendship as well
as family diversity.

Teaching about families is usually part of the curriculum in early elementary


school grades. The following lesson plan, adapted from the Welcoming
Schools Guide (2007). a publication of the Human Rights Campaign
Foundation's Family Project provides a model to teach children's literature
that is inclusive of same-sex families.

Goal
• Students will see that the common bond that holds all kinds of healthy
families together is love and caring.

Objectives
• Students will be able to identify what makes a family.
• Students will be able to identify and describe a variety of families.
• Students will understand that families have some similarities and some
differences.

Time Required
One 45-minute session or two 30-minute sessions.

Materials
Chart paper and markers.

Required Books (Choose one of the following books.)


Who's in a Family? by Robert Skutch, illustrations by L. Nelnhaus (Tricycle
Press, 1995). This picture book has many different examples of families film
the human and animal world. Simple language and pictures work well for
'younger students.

It's Elementary Page 65


.Ali Families are Special by Norma Simon, illustrations by Teresa Flavin (Albert
Whitman & Company, 2003). A teacher who is going to be a grandmother
leads a class In an engaging conversation about families. Children share stories
about their families, addressing adoption, extended families, single parents,
lesbian and gay parents, immigrant families and more.

ACTIVITY 1: Before Reading the Book

Label a piece of chart paper, "What do we know about families?" Ask the
class the following questions and record their answers on the paper.

• What do we know about families?


•, Who is in a family?
• What do family members give or share with each other?
• What responsibilities do family members have?

ACTIVITY 2: Introduce the Book

Before reading the book you have chosen for this lesson plan, ask children to
pay attention to the kinds of families that are shown in the book. Tell them
you want to see how many different kinds of families we can find In this book.

As you teed, pause after each family and ask questions such as, "What do you
see in this picture?" or 'Who's in this family?"

ACTIVITY 3: After Reading the Book

Review the students' answers to the question, "What do we know about


families?" Then review all the different kinds of families that were in the
book. Ask them what they have learned about families from today's class.

Page 66 Ciementary

TEACHING NOTES

Responding to Student Assumptions


While recording and responding to students' comments
it is important to affirm children's experiences and also provide a lens
through which they can see outside their own experiences. If, as in one
of the classrooms shown in It's Elementary, a student says that a fam-
ily is made up of a mother, a father and two children you can acknowl-
edge that some families look like this, but also ask students for other
examples of what a family can look like. When students are speaking
about their own families, it can be helpful to let them know that "ev-
ery person gets to decide who their family is.' They may decide that
their family includes a pet, a cousin who lives elsewhere, or a neighbor.

Modifications
This activity can be modified for younger students by drawing picture
symbols or using magazine cut outs of family members. For example, if
a student says that her family consists of a parent, a grandparent and
a brother, you can draw a representation of this family.

Credit This lessen was excerpted with permission from the Welcoming Schools Guide (2007),
a publication of the Human Right Campaign Foundation's Family Project.

tr

It's Elementary Page 67


Lesson 3:
Proposed
AND TANGO MAIMS THREE,
Grades 1-3
BnininaningEMEMEn
In the film, a third-grade student named Emily reads aloud an essay she
wrote about her two moms for a Mothers Day writing contest. She shares her
experience of another child not being able to come to her house because her
moms are lesbian, She talks about having many kids in her class supporting
her and how proud she is ot her moms. Also in the film, after listening to the
book Asha's Mums, a little girl asks her teacher, "Do you believe I have two
moms?" When the teacher responds that she does believe her; you can visibly
see how happy that makes the little girl.

Many teachers In the primary grades regularly read out loud to the class to
introduce new concepts and build vocabulary Classroom discussions of gay-
and lesbian-headed households help students explore the attributes of healthy
families as they learn more about different family structures. One book that
lends itself to this dual discussion is the award-winning And Tango Makes
Three. The book is based on a true story about two male Chinstrap penguins,
Roy and Silo, who fall in love and with the help of their keeper, Mr. Gramzay,
become fathers to Tango. This is a wonderful story that illustrates the beauty
of diverse families.

Goals
• Students will be able to discuss different family structures inclusive of gay
and lesbian parents.
• Students will Identify the shared attributes of healthy families.

Objectives
• Discuss different family structures inclusive of gay and lesbian parents.
• Identify and discuss basic human needs.
• Understand key vocabulary words that pertain to human needs.
• Utilize key vocabulary in writing and verbal expression.

Time Required
Three 30-minute sessions.

Materials
Construction paper, pencils, lined handwriting paper, stapler and crayons.

Required Book
And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell, illustrations
by Henry Cole (Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers, 2005). At New

Page 68 Ft's Cismentary


York City's Central Park Zoo, two male penguins fall in love and start a family
by taking turns sitting on an abandoned egg until it hatches.

Teaching Tip
Before you begin this lesson prepare a poster or bulle-
tin board display that includes the vocabulary lists that
will be introduced throughout the lesson (see below). It
might be helpful to print the vocabulary words on index cards that are
laminated for durability. Attach a small piece of velcro on the back of
each card and on the poster/bulletin board to allow for ease in display-
ing and sharing with students. Create packets of writing paper that
includes ten sheets each. These packets will become the content pages
of the student family Journals you will create during Activity 3.

ACTIVITY 1: Taking Care of Self and Others

Open up a conversation with student about what all parents or caregivers


need to do in order to take care of a baby. You might begin by usinb some of
the prompts below. Structure your brainstorm by creating a list of different
animals and ask students what they think each requires (needs) In order to
survive. Record student responses on a piece of chart paper. Circle or underline •
• Items that are the same for different animals.

Suggested Prompts

Human: baby Load, milk, water air, warm shelter, a home, and clothes...
Puppy: puppy 1th puppy milk, water, gjç,. a warm and dry place to live...
Fish: fish food, worms or 'other fish to eat, water (salt or fresh), a certain
temperature, sometimes coral or rocks to hide from predators... •
Turtle: turtle food, west sometimes sunlight or a heating rock to keep them
at the right tea .
Bird: „air, a warm nest, bird food...

Let students know that even if a baby has all the necessary basic needs to live,
they will need care and love to thrive.

Basic Needs Vocabulary


care grow
live water
warmth shelter
air/oxygen temperature a
food/milk caretakers

Ws Elementary Page 69

In closing the lesson ask students if there are other things that people and
animals need to survive and grow. Explore the following questions with
them:

• How do you feel when someone takes care of you?


• Does it make you happy when someone takes care of you?

• Have you ever helped to take care of a pet?


• Have you ever helped to take care of a baby?

ACTIVITY 2: And Tango Makes Three

Before you begin the story ask students some exploratory questions and
review the vocabulary from Activity 1. Some suggested questions:

• Has anyone here been to a zoo?


• What did you see there?
• How did the zoo care for the animals?
• Where any of the animals in families?
• What is a family?
• What do all families have in common?

Read And "Ingo Makes Three. After the story is over ask the students what
they liked best about the story. After a brief discussion, tell the students that
thy are going to talk about the kind of family that Tango was part of in this
story. Explore student responses to the following questions:
Teaching Tip
Provide some photos of • How were Roy and Silo like other penguin couples?
baby animals for students
• Why do you think Roy and Silo built a nest?
to look at or bring some
stuffed animals or figures to class and • How were Roy and Silo like other penguin parents?
pass them around for those learners who Roy and Silo are male penguins. What do you think about them being
need a more hands-on experience. parents?
• -Why did the zookeeper think Roy and Silo were in love?
• Were Roy and Silo a "couple?"
• Were Roy and Silo good parents? Why do you think they were good
parents?
• What do we call parents who are of the same sex? (suggested language:
gay, lesbian)
• What kind of needs did Tango have?

In closing your discussion explain that what is most important in a family is not
who makes up the family but how the family cares for and loves each other
just like Roy and Silo's family.

Page 70 WI Elementary
Sense of Love Vocabulary
love "in love"
thrive couple
partner gay
lesbian belong
caretaker family

Suggested Definitions of Love


• A deep, tender feeling of care toward a person.

• An intense emotional attachment, as for a pet or treasured object.


• When a person wants to care for another person with all their heart.

Activity 3: Writing and Using New Vocabulary

Distribute the packets of paper prepared in advance. Allow students to


choose two pieces of construction paper. Using their crayons, have students
create a cover for their journal that includes a picture of Roy and Silo's family.
Circulate around the room attaching the covers to the packets with a stapler.
Ask students to write a paragraph (or sentences) about Roy and Silo on the
first page of their family journals.

Teaching Tip
You may create a checklist for your student, which will
differ according to grade level.

• Did you use complete sentences? (subject/predicate)


• Did you use the correct punctuation? (periods, question marks,
commas...)
• Did you use capital letters in the right places?

• Did you use at least three new vocabulary words?

After students have finished their first entry on Roy and Silo have them write
a story about their family on the second page. The journal can be revisited
over the course of two weeks, allowing students to write a new entry each
day about how they are cared for by their family, how they care for others In
their family, or how they see other animals care for their offspring.

Credit: This lesson was reprinted with permission from the San Francisco Unified School District,
School Health Programs Department.

Page 71
*Es Elementary

Daniel Chin
315 Sweet Road
Alameda, CA 94502
(510) 865-1608
drdchin@sbcglobatnet

June 13, 2009

Kirsten Vital, Superintendent


ALAMEDA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA. 94501
Fax: (510) 522-6926

Re: Notice to Opt-Out of Safe School Community Lesson 9 re LGBT Instruction

Dear Superintendent Vital,

My name is Daniel Chin, and I am the parent of Natalee Chin who is enrolled in the Alameda Unified
School District. Natalee will be entering kindergarten at the start of the 2009/2010 school year.

The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As such,
pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code, this letter will serve as written notice that!
am opting my child out of said instruction. The LGBT portion of the instruction conflicts with both my
religious training and beliefs as well as my personal moral convictions. Please provide written
notification, no later than ten (10) days, as to whether the District will honor this request. If not, please
provide a complete description, including forms or other written materials, for exhausting administrative
remedies. •This request is made under the California Public Records Act (Gov. Code §6250, et seq.).

In addition, kindly provide the dates and times of when the above instruction will be given in my child's
classes for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end I request that the District provide any and all
"writings", defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the instruction will be given
in my child's classes. This request is also made under the CPRA. Please be advised that, if necessary,
appropriate legal options under Gov. Code §6258, et seq., (injunctive, declaratory, writ relief, costs and
attorneys fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for failure to comply with this request for documents
under the CPRA.

Sincerely,

Daniel Chin

cc. K. Snider, Pacific Justice Institute



uCct_ .510 521 5997

IP

Malt and Kerr! Lonergan


3214 Liberty Avenue Alameda, CA 94501
(510)522-7889
mklonergan@alamedanetnet

June 14, 2009

Kirsten Vital, Superintendent


ALAMEDA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA. 94501
Fax: (510) 522-6926

Re: Notice to Opt-Out of Safe School Community Lesson 9 re LGBT Instruction

Dear Superintendent Vital,


My name is Kerni Lonergan and lam the parent of children who are enrolled in the Alameda Unified
School District. My children, Liam James Lonergan and Niamh Kathleen Lonergan will be entering 4th
grade at the start of the 200912010 school year.
The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As such,
pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code, this letter will serve as written notice that I
am opting my children out of said instruction. The LGBT portion of the instruction conflicts with both
my religious training and beliefs as well as my personal morn! convictions. Please provide written
notification, no later than ten (10) days, as to whether the District will honor this request. If not, please
provide a complete description, including forms or other written materials, for exhausting administrative
remedies. This request is made under the California Public Records Act (Gov. Code §6250, et seq.).
In addition, kindly provide the dates and times of when the above instruction will be given in my
children's classes for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end I request that the District provide any and
all "writings", defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the instruction will be
given in my children's classes. This request is also made under the CPRA. Please be advised that, if
necessary, appropriate legal options under Gov. Code §6258, et seq., (injunctive, declaratory, writ relief,
costs and attorneys fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for failure to comply with this request for
documents under the CPRA.
Sincerely,
;Km, cit.(221:Warkz
a —
Kerii Lonergan
cc. K. Snider, Pacific Justice Institute
Archie and J'aime Felix
1160 Old Alameda Point
(510)522-7686
jaimefelix55@gmai1.com

June 14, 2009

Kirsten Vital, Superintendent


Alameda Unified School District
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA. 94501
Fax: (510) 522-6926

Re: Notice to Opt-Out of Safe School Community Lesson 9 re LGBT Instruction

Dear Superintendent Vital,

My name is J'aime Felix, and I am the parent of a child who is enrolled in the Alameda Unified
School District. My child, Keilani Felix, will be entering 3rd grade at the start of the 2009/2010
school year.

The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As
such, pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code, this letter will serve as written
notice that I am opting my child out of said instruction. The LGBT portion of the instruction
conflicts with both my religious training and beliefs as well as my personal moral convictions.
Please provide written notification, no later than ten (10) days, as to whether the District will
honor this request. If not, please provide a complete description, including forms or other
written materials, for exhausting administrative remedies. This request is made under the
California Public Records Act (Gov. Code §6250, et seq.).

In addition, kindly provide the dates and times of when the above instruction will be given in
my child's classes for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end I request that the District provide
any and all "writings", defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the
instruction will be given in my child's classes. This request is also made under the CPRA.
Please be advised that, if necessary, appropriate legal options under Gov. Code §6258, et seq.,
(injunctive, declaratory, writ relief, costs and attorneys fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for
failure to comply with this request for documents under the CPRA.

Sincerely,

J'aime Felix

cc. K. Snider, Pacific Justice Institute


Judy Johansing
2926 Lincoln Avenue Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 523-1486
timegone®sbcglobal.net

June 15, 2009

Kirsten Vital, Superintendent


ALAMEDA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA. 94501
Fax: (510) 522-6926

Re: Notice to Opt-Out of Safe School Community Lesson 9 it LGBT Instruction

Dear Superintendent Vital,

My name is Judy Johansing and I am the parent of a child who is enrolled in the Alameda Unified School
District. My child, Benjamin Johansing will be entering 4th grade at the start of the 2009/2010 school
year.

The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As such,
pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code, this letter will serve as written notice that I
am opting my child out of said instruction. The LGBT portion of the instruction conflicts with both my
religious training and beliefs as well as my personal moral convictions. Please provide written
notification, no later than ten (10) days, as to whether the District will honor this request. If not, please
provide a complete description, including forms or other written materials, for exhausting administrative
remedies. This request is made under the California Public Records Act (Gov. Code §6250, et seq.).

In addition, kindly provide the dates and times of when the above instruction will be given in my child's
class for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end I request that the District provide any and all "writings",
defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the instruction will be given in my
child's class. This request is also made under the CPRA. Please be advised that, if necessary, appropriate
legal options under Gov. Code §6258, et seq., (injunctive, declaratory, writ relief, costs and attorneys
fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for failure to comply with this request for documents under the
CPRA.

Sincerely,

Judy Johansing

cc. K. Snider, Pacific Justice Institute



Jun 25 09 09:52a muss beide
510-50479 p.1

Maria Guadalupe V. Gems


c/o 1021 Santa Inez Cunt, Oakland, CA 94601
(510)303-0046

June 16, 2009

Kirsten Vital, Superintendent


ALAMEDA UNIFIED SalOOL DESTRICT
2200 Central Avenue .
Alameda, CA. 94501
Fax: (510) 522-6926
Be: Notice to Opt-Ord of Safe School CommUnity LeSSCM 9 re LGBT lnstnzclinn

Dear Superintendent Vital,


My name is made Gnadalupe V. Gruner, and lain Me parditt of Pricilla Gomez who is enrolled in the
Alameda Unified School District My daughter Pricilla, Cibmez will be entering 6 grade at the start of the
2009/2010 school year.
The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instxuctioA that involves health r d ergtion. As such,
pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Codri , this letter will serve as mitten notice that!
8M opting my child out of said instruction. The WET portion of the instntetion conflict): with both my
religions training and beliefs as well as my personal moral convictions. Please provide written
notification, no later than ten 00) days, as to whether the District will honor this request. Knot, please
provide a complete description, including forms or other viritien materials, for exhausting administrative
remedies. This ruttiest is made under the Ctdifornia Public Records Act (Gov_ Code §6250, et seq.).
In addition, kindly provide the dates mid times of when the above instruction will be given in my child's
classes for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end 1 requ test that the District provide any and all
"writings", defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the instruction will be given
in my child's classes. This request is also made under th4 CPRA. Please be advised that, ifnecessary,
appropriate legal options under Gay. Code *6258, et seq.; (injunctive„ declaratory, writ relief; costs and
attorneys fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for failure to comply with this request for domunents
under the CPRA.
Sincerely
"A? fate II V

, cc. K. Snider, Pacific Justice Institute


Hanford J. Chin
204 Sheffield Road
510-814-7252
chiu5@alamedanet.net

June 19, 2009

Kirsten Vital, Superintendent


ALAMEDA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA. 94501
Fax: (510) 522-6926

Re: Notice to Opt-Out of Safe School Community Lesson 9 re LGBT Instruction

Dear Superintendent Vital,

My name is Hanford Chiu, and I am the parent of children who are enrolled in the Alameda Unified
School District. My children, Joshua and Daniel, will be entering the 4 th and 2mi grades at the start of the
2009/2010 school year.

The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As such,
pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code, this letter will serve as written notice that I
am opting my children out of said instruction. The LGBT portion of the instruction conflicts with both
my religious training and beliefs as well as my personal moral convictions. Please provide written
notification, no later than ten (10) days, as to whether the District will honor this request. If not, please
provide a complete description, including forms or other written materials, for exhausting administrative
remedies. This request is made under the California Public Records Act (Gov. Code §6250, et seq.).

In addition, kindly provide the dates and times of when the above instruction will be given in my
children's classes for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end I request that the District provide any and
all "writings", defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the instruction will be
given in my children's classes. This request is also made under the CPRA. Please be advised that, if
necessary, appropriate legal options under Gov. Code §6258, et seq., (injunctive, declaratory, writ relief,
costs and attorneys fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for failure to comply with this request for
documents under the CPRA. .

older. Pac ice Institute


Mikel Del Rosario
224 Inverness Court
(510) 217 8266
mikeldelrosario®gmail.com

June 19, 2009

Kirsten Vital, Superintendent


ALAMEDA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA. 94501
Pax: (530) 522-6926

Re: Notice to Opt-Out of Safe School Community Lesson 9 re LOBT Instruction

Dear Superintendent Vital,

My name is Mike! Del Rosario, and I am the parent of Josiah Del Rosario who is enrolled in the
Alameda Unified School District. My child will be entering kindergarten at the start of the
2009/2010 school year.

The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As
such, pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code, this letter will serve as written
notice that I am opting my child out of said instruction. The LGBT portion of the instruction
conflicts with both my religious training and beliefs as well as my personal moral convictions.
Please provide written notification, no later than ten (10) days, as to whether the District will
honor this request. If not, please provide a complete description, including forms or other written
materials, for exhausting administrative remedies. This request is made under the California
Public Records Act (Gm Code §6250, et seq.).

In addition, kindly provide the dates and times of when the above instruction will be given in
Josiah's classes for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end, I request that the District provide
any and all "writings", defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the
instruction will be given in Josiah's classes. This request is also made under the CPRA. Please
be advised that, if necessary, appropriate legal options under Gov. Code §6258, et seq.,
(injunctive, declaratory, writ relief, costs and attorneys fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for
failure to comply with this request for documents under the CPRA.

cc. K. Snider, Pacific Justice Institute


Richard & Diane Clark
10 Sable Pointe
Alameda, CA 94502
510-864-8479
rclark94502©yahoo.com

June 20, 2009

Kirsten Vital, Superintendent


ALAMEDA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA. 94501
Fax: (510) 522-6926

Re: Notice to Opt-Out of Safe School Community Lesson 9 re LGBT Instruction

Dear Superintendent Vital,

We are Richard and Diane Clark and are the parents of Dillon Clark who is enrolled in the Alameda
Unified School District. Dillon will be entering kindergarten at the start of the 2009/2010 school year.

The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As such,
pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code, this letter will serve as written notice that I
am opting my child out of said instruction. The LGBT portion of the instruction conflicts with both my
religious training and beliefs as well as my personal moral convictions. Please provide written
notification, no later than ten (10) days, as to whether the District will honor this request. If not, please
provide a complete description, including forms or other written materials, for exhausting administrative
remedies. This request is made under the California Public Records Act (Gov. Code §6250, et seq.).

In addition, kindly provide the dates and times of when the above instruction will be given in my child's
classes for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end! request that the District provide any and all
"writings", defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the instruction will be given
in my [child's/children's] classes. This request is also made under the CPRA. Please be advised that, if
necessary, appropriate legal options under Gov. Code §6258, et seq., (injunctive, declaratory, writ relief,
costs and attorneys fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for failure to comply with this request for
documents under the CPRA.

Since

cc. K. Snider, Pacific Justice Institute


d&A._
Richard & Diane Clark
10 Sable Pointe
Alameda, CA 94502
510-864-8479
rc1ark94502@yahoo.com

June 20, 2009

Kirsten Vital, Superintendent


ALAMEDA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA. 94501
Fax: (510) 522-6926

Re: Notice to Opt-Out of Safe School Community Lesson 9 re LGBT Instruction

Dear Superintendent Vital,

We are Richard and Diane Clark and are the parents of Dillon Clark who is enrolled in the Alameda
Unified School District. Dillon will be entering kindergarten at the start of the 2009/2010 school year.

The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As such,
pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code, this letter will serve as written notice that I
am opting my child out of said instruction. The LGBT portion of the instruction conflicts iwith both my
religious training and beliefs as well as my personal moral convictions. Please provide written
notification, no later than ten (10) days, as to whether the District will honor this request. If not, please
provide a complete description, including forms or other written materials, for exhausting administrative
remedies. This request is made under the California Public Records Act (Gov. Code §6250, et seq.).

In addition, kindly provide the dates and times of when the above instruction will be given in my child's
classes for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end I request that the District provide any and all
"writings", defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the instruction will be given
in my [child's/children's] classes. This request is also made under the CPRA. Please be advised that, if
necessary, appropriate legal options under Gov. Code §6258, et seq., (injunctive, declaratory, writ relief,
costs and attorneys fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for failure to comply with this request for
documents under the CPRA.

Since

cc. K. Snider, Pacific Justice Institute


/€0 ditat.
Jun 22 09 02:01p muss beide
• 510- •79 P.1

(A1ESRA) IRENE BALDE'


737 Eagle Avenue #I)
Alameda, CA 94501
(510)865-2649

June 22, 2009

Kirsten Vital, Superintendent


ALAMEDA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA, 94501
Fax: (510)522-6926
Re: Notice to Opt-Out of Safe School Comninnity Lesson 9 re LOST Instruction

Dear Superintendent Vital,


My name is Aleshe Beide, and I am the parent of Tamba, Ibrahim & Maryama Bald& who are enrolled in
the Alameda Unified School District Ibrahim will be entering 6th grade, Maryama will be entering 4°'
grade and Tanta will be entering 10th grade at the start of the 2009/2010 school year.
The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As such,
pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code, this letter will serve as written notice that I
am opting my Maryama Battle' out of said instruction. The LGET portion of the instruction conflicts
with both my religious training and beliefs as well as my personal moral convictions. Please provide
written notification, no later than ten (10) days, as to whether the District will honor this request. If not,
please provide a complete description, including forms or other written materials, for exhausting
administrative =Medics. This request is made underthe California Public Records Act (Gov. Code
§6250, at seq.).
In addition, kindly provide the dates and times of when the above instruction will be given in my child's
classes for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end I request-that the District provide any and all
"writings", defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the instruction will be given
in my child's classes. This request is also made under the CPRA. Please be advised that, if necessary,
appropriate legal options under Gov. Code §6258, at seq., (injunctive, declaratory, writ relief, costs and
attorneys fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for failure to comply with this request for documents
under the CPRA.

Sincerely,
e

Mesita Balde'

cc. K. Snider, Pacific Justice Institute


06/26/2009 09:22 51062430001 SEAGATE PAGE 01/01

Tommytheung & Jolene Chan


250 Ratto Road, Alameda, CA 94502
510-522-1618
jolc21@hotmailocom

6/25/09

Kirsten Vital, Superintendent


ALAMEDA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA. 94501
Fax: (510) 522-6926

Re: Notice to Opt-Out of Safe School Community Lesson 9 re LOBE Instruction

Dear Superintendent Vital,

My name is Tommy Cheung and Jolene Chan, and 1 am The parent of a child who is enrolled in
the Alameda Unified School District Our son, Jared Cheung„ will be entering 2 nd grade at the
start of the 2009/2010 school year.

The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As
such, pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code, this letter will serve as written
notice that I am opting my child out of said instruction. The LOST portion of the instruction
conflicts with both my religious training and beliefs as well as my personal moral convictions.
Please provide written notification, no later than ten (10) days, as to whether the District will
honor this request. If not, please provide a complete description, including forms or other written
materials, for exhausting administrative remedies. This request is made under the California
Public Records Act (Gm. Code 0250, et seq.).
In addition, kindly provide the dates and times of when the above instruction will be given in my
child's classes for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end 1 request that the District provide any
and all "writings", defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the instruction
will be given in my [ehild's/childten's] classes. This request is also made under the CPRA.
Please be advised that, if necessary, appropriate legal options under Gov. Code §6258, et seq.,
(injunctive, declaratory, writ relief, costs and attorneys fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for
failure to comply with this request for documents under The CPRA.

H
e
„Sir e_ot
Tommy Cheung & Jol Chas

cc. K. Snider, Pacific Justice Institute


Jul. 2:09 11:48 WENDY F T RDS FAX 1-51 9-8105 P. 1

Wendy Fong
8 Ferro Ct.
510-769-8105
wendyfl 5(gyahoo.com

July 2, 2009

Kitten Vital, Superintendent


ALAMEDA UNIFIED SCHOOL D/STRICT
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA. 94501
Fax: (510) 522-6926

Re: Notice to Opt-Out of Safe School Community Lesson 9 to LOW Instruction

Dear Superintendent Vita,

My name is Wendy Fong, and! am the parent of children who are enrolled in the Alameda Unified
School District. Kendall will be entering 4th grade and Mitchell will be entering 2m grade at the start of
the 2009/2010 school year.
The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As such,
pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code, this letter will serve as written notice that I
am opting my children out of said instruction. The LGET portion of the instruction conflicts with both
my religious training and beliefs as well as my personal moral convictions Please provide written
notification, no later than ten (10) days, as to whether The District will honor this request. If not, please
provide a complete description, including forms or other written materials, for exhausting administrative
remedies, This request is made under the California Public Records Act (Gov. Code 0250, at seq.).
In addition, kindly provide the dates and times of when the above instruction will be given in my
children's classes for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end I request that the District provide any and
all "writings", defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the instruction will be
given in my children's classes. This request is also made under the CPRA. Please be advised that, if
necessary, appropriate legal options under Gov. Code §6258, et seq., (injunctive, declaratory, writ relief,
costs and attorneys fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for failure to comply with This request for
documents under the CPRA.

Sincerely,

. K. *de , self° Justice Institute


cel15..
Jonathan Stairs
1724 Broadway
Alameda, CA 94501
510-865-2725
jonstairs@hotmail.com

July 12, 2009

Kirsten Vital, Superintendent


ALAMEDA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA. 94501
Fax: (510) 522-6926

Re: Notice to Opt-Out of Safe School Community Lesson 9 re LGBT Instruction

Dear Superintendent Vital,

My name is Jonathan Stairs and 1 am the parent of Harrison Stairs who is enrolled in the Alameda Unified
School District. My child will be entering 4 th grade at the start of the 2009/2010 school year.

The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As such,
pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code, this letter will serve as written notice that I
am opting my child out of said instruction. The LGBT portion of the instruction conflicts with both my
religious training and beliefs as well as my personal moral convictions. Please provide written
notification, no later than ten (10) days, as to whether the District will honor this request. If not, please
provide a complete description, including forms or other written materials, for exhausting administrative
remedies. This request is made under the California Public Records Act (Gov. Code §6250, et seq.).

In addition, kindly provide the dates and times of when the above instruction will be given in my child's
classes for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end I request that the District provide any and all
"Writings", defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the instruction will be given
in my child's classes. This request is also made under the CPRA. Please be advised that, if necessary,
appropriate legal options under Gov. Code §6258, et seq., (injunctive, declaratory, writ relief, costs and
attorneys fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for failure to comply with this request for documents
under the CPRA.

Sincerely,

cc. K. Snider, Pacific Justice institute


Vicki Stairs
1724 Broadway
(510) 865-2725
jvstairs@compuserve.com

July 12, 2009

Kirsten Vital, Superintendent


ALAMEDA UNIFIED SCHOOL Dinkier
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA. 94501
Fax: (510) 522-6926

Re: Notice to Opt-Out of Safe School Community Lesion 9 re LGBT Instruction

Dear Superintendent Vital,

My name is Vicki Stairs and I am the parent of Harrison Stairs who is enrolled in the Alameda Unified
School District. My son, Harrison, will be entering fourth grade at the start of the 2009/2010 school year.

The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As such,
pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code, this letter will serve as written notice that I
am opting my child out of said instruction. The LOST portion of the instruction conflicts with my
religious training and beliefs as well as my personal moral convictions. Please provide written
notification, no later than ten (10) days, as to whether the District will honor this request. If not, please
provide a complete description, including forms or other written materials, for exhausting administrative
remedies. This request is made under the California Public Records Act (Gov. Code §6250, et seq.).

In addition, kindly provide the dates and times of when the above instruction will be given in my child's
classes for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end I request that the District provide any and all
"writings", defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the instruction will be given
in my child's classes. This request is also made under the CPRA. Please be advised that, if necessary,
appropriate legal options under Gov, Code §6258, et seq., (injunctive, declaratory, writ relief, costs and
attorneys fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for failure to comply with this request for documents
under the CPRA.

Sincerely

Vicki Stairs

cc. K. Snider, Pacific Justide Institute


Aug. 3 '09 16:31 WENDY FtEVENTSSCARDS FAX 1- 9-8105
05 P.

Dentin Li and Sue Fang


3424 Solomon Ln
Alameda, CA 94502
510-769-6507
suefung@sbcglobal.net

July 20, 2009

Kirsten Vital, Superintendent


ALA1VIEDA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRIC7'
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA. 94501
Fax: (510) 522-6926

Re: Notice to Opt-Out of Safe School Community Lesson 9 re Wilt Instruction

Dear Superintendent Vital,

My name is Sue Fung, and lam the mother of Alexander Li who is enrolled in the Alameda
Unified School District Alexander will be entering 1st grade at the start of the 2009/2010 school
year.

The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As
such, pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code, this letter will serve as written
notice that I am opting my child out of said instruction, The WET portion of the instruction
conflicts with both my religious training and beliefs as well as my persona/ moral convictions.
Please provide written notification, no later than ten (10) days, as to whether the District will
honor this request If not, please provide a complete description, including forms or other written
materials, for exhausting administrative remedies. This request is made under the California
Public Records Act (Gov. Code §6250, et seq.).

In addition, kindly provide the dates and times of when the above instruction will be given in
Alexander's classes for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end I request that the District provide
any and all "writings", defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the
instruction will be given in Alexander's classes. This request is also made under the CPR&
Please be advised that, if necessary, appropriate legal options under Gov, Code §6258, et seq.,
(injunctive, declaratory, writ relief, costs and attorneys fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for
failure to comply with this request for documents under the CPRA.

Sincerely,

Sue Fung
cc. K. Snider, Pacific Justice Institute
Linda S. Morgan
74 Applegate Way
Alameda, CA 94502
Lindyz117®yahoo.corn

July 27, 2009

ICirsten Vital, Superintendent


ALAMEDA UNIFIED SUM& DISTRICT
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA, 94501
Fax: (510) 522-6926

Re: Notice to Opt-Out of Safe School Community Lesson 9 re LGBT Instruction

Dear Superintendent Vital,


My name is Linda Morgan, and I am the parent of children who are enrolled in the Alameda Unified
School District. My children, Jacob Morgan and Virginia Morgan, will be entering first grade and
kindergarten at the start of the 2009/2010 school year.

The Safe School Community Lesson 9 includes instruction that involves health education. As such,
pursuant to section 51240 of the California Education Code, this letter will serve as written notice that I
am opting my children out of said instruction. The LGET portion of the instruction conflicts with both
my religious training and beliefs as well as my personal moral convictions. Please provide written
notification, no later than ten (10) days, as to whether the District will honor this request. If not, please
provide a complete description, including forms or other written materials, for exhausting administrative
remedies. This request is made under the California Public Records Act (Gov. Code §6250, et seq.).

In addition, kindly provide the dates and times of when the above instruction will be given in my
children's classes for the 2009/2010 school year. To this end I request that the District provide any and
all "writings", defined under Gov. Code §6252(e), that indicate the dates when the instruction will be
given in my children's classes. This request is also made under the CPRA. Please be advised that, if
necessary, appropriate legal options under Gov. Code §6258, et seq., (injunctive, declaratory, writ relief,
costs and attorneys fees) will be pursued by my attorneys for failure to comply with this request for
documents under the CPRA.

Sincerely,

44(A4_, >1
Linda S. Morgan

cc. K. Snider, Pacific Justice Institute



CAPITAL OFFICE
PA/ Box 276600* SaCIIIIIICDCO, CA 95827 BRAD W. DACUS, ESQ.
916.857.6900 • FAX 916.8574902
President
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA OFFICE PACIFIC JUSTICE EDWIN MEESE, I/1
ED. Box 11630 • Santa Ma, CA 92711
714.796.1150 , PAX 714.7947182
INSTITUTE Former Attorney General
Advisory Board Chairman

June 26, 2009

Kirsten Vital, Superintendent


ALAMEDA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
2200 Central Avenue
Alameda, CA 94501

Re: I) Excusal Notices. for Safe Schools Community Lesson 9 re LGBT


Instruction
2) CA Public Records Act Request

Dear Ms. Vital,

Please be advised that this office represents the parents, guardians and pupils whose
names are indicated on the enclosed letters. Kindly direct all responses to those letters to
this office.

1) Excusal Notices for Safe Schools Community Lesson 9 re LGBT Instruction

My clients are requesting that their children be excused from portions of the Safe Schools
Community Lesson 9 relative to LGBT instruction. The authority for opting out of said
instruction comes from section 51240 of the Education Code which states in MI as
follows:

(a) If any part of a school's instruction in health conflicts with the


religious training and beliefs of a parent or guardian of a pupil, the pupil,
upon written request of the parent or guardian, shall be excused from the
part of the instruction that conflicts with the religious training and beliefs.
(b) For purposes of this section, "religious training and beliefs" includes
personal moral convictions.

As per Educ. Code. § 51210.8, the California State Board of Education has adopted
standards for instruction in health education. Those standards have been memorialized in
Health Education Content Standards for California Public Schools, Kindergarten Through
Grade Twelve (March 12, 2008) and thus said publication provides the parameters for
what constitutes health instruction. In pertinent part, the State Board has determined that
Health Education includes the following:

e "Describe the characteristics of families," pg. 4


Page 1 of 2
June 26, 2009
"Raising the Tomb offustice for Our Civil Liberties"
wwuspacifsjustiee.org

s "Describe how members of a family have various roles, responsibilities,
and individual needs." pg. 6
e "Discuss how to show respect for similarities and differences between and
among individuals and groups?' pg.12
• "Demonstrate the ability to support and respect people with differences."
pg.16
e "Examine the effects of bullying and harassment on others." pg.19
• "Recognize that there are individual differences in growth and
development, physical appearance, and gender roles." pg.25
A review the Safe Schools Community curriculum reveals that the above items are
present in Lesson 9. Hence, my clients are exercising their right to have their children
excused from said instruction.

Please respond directly to this office as to whether the District will comply with the opt-
out requests submitted by my clients within ten days of the receipt of this letter.

2) CA Public Records Act Request

Finally, please be aware that the enclosed letters by my clients also include requests for
records under Gov. Code § 6250, et seq. Kindly send the responsive documents directly
to this office.

Very truly yours,

Kevin T. Snider
Chief Counsel
PACIFIC JUSTICE INSTITUTE

Page 2 of 2
June 26, 2009

Alameda Unified School Districe
Equity & Excellence for All Students
Margie Sherratt, Interim Assistant Superintendent
2200 Central Avenue— Room 206E
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 337-7063

Maria Guadalupe V. Gomez


1021 Santa Inez Court
Oakland, CA 94601

July 20, 2009

Dear Ms. Gomez,

The Alameda Unified School District has received your letter dated, June 16, 2009,
indicating your intention to opt your child, Pricilla Gomez, out of the District's Caring
School Community supplement, Lesson 9 during the 2009-2010 school year. On May
26, 2009 the Board of Education approved the motion to adopt the Caring School
Community curriculum supplement, Lesson 9 as part of its Safe School Community
program. Lesson 9 addresses issues of sexual orientation / gender identity. The Board's
motion and approval did not provide an opt out option.

The Alameda Unified School District is obligated to provide a safe and welcoming
environment for all students. This effort is in accordance with legal mandates set forth in
the Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000, the District's Board Policy
5145.3 (Nondiscrimination/Harassment), Education Code Section 2000, and Penal Code
Section 422.6(a). These laws and policies require that public schools prevent
discrimination and harassment against all legally protected categories of students. A
support guide is being developed by teachers to ensure that the District's policies and
practices protect all legally protected categories.

Lesson 9 will be taught within the first trimester of the 2009 — 2010 school year. Specific
dates and times are not available. Providing them would be impracticable, as teachers in
different grades will integrate Lesson 9 into other educational objectives throughout the
trimester. For example, many teachers will teach Lesson 9 with the HMR reading series
unit on the Family. Kindergarten teachers may find it appropriate to teach the
Welcoming lesson at the beginning of the school year. Lesson 9 will not be taught on the
same date in all grade levels.

As professional educators, I am confident that our teachers will educate all of Alameda's
children in a sensitive manner.

Sincer y,
271--
sten Vital Margie Sherratt
Superintendent , Interim Assistant Superintendent
• •
Alameda Unified School District
Equity & Excellence for All Students
Margie Sherratt, Interim Assistant Superintendent
2200 Central Avenue — Room 206E
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 337-7063

Ms. Aiesha Irene Beide'


737 Eagle Avenue #1)
Alameda, CA 94501

July 20, 2009

Dear Ms. Beide',

The Alameda Unified School District has received your letter dated, June 22, 2009,
indicating your intention to opt your children, Tamba, Ibrahim & Maryama Beide', out of
the District's Caring School Community supplement, Lesson 9 during the 2009-2010
school year. On May 26, 2009 the Board of Education approved the motion to adopt the
Caring School Community curriculum supplement, Lesson 9 as part of its Safe School
Community program. Lesson 9 addresses issues of sexual orientation / gender identity.
The Board's motion and approval did not provide an opt out option.

The Alameda Unified School District is obligated to provide a safe and welcoming
environment for all students. This effort is in accordance with legal mandates set forth in
the Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000, the District's Board Policy
5145.3 (Nondiscrimination/Harassment), Education Code Section 2000, and Penal Code
Section 422.6(a). These laws and policies require that public schools prevent
discrimination and harassment against all legally protected categories of students. A
support guide is being developed by teachers to ensure that the District's policies and
practices protect all legally protected categories.

Lesson 9 will be taught within the first trimester of the 2009 — 2010 school year. Specific
dates and times are not available. Providing them would be impracticable, as teachers in
different grades will integrate Lesson 9 into other educational objectives throughout the
trimester. For example, many teachers will teach Lesson 9 with the HMR reading series
unit on the Family. Kindergarten teachers may find it appropriate to teach the
Welcoming lesson at the beginning of the school year. Lesson 9 will not be taught on the
same date in all grade levels.

As professional educator; I am confident that our teachers will educate all of Alameda's
children in a sensitive manner.

en Vt. Margie S1lerra


Superintendent Interim Assistant Superintendent
0
Alamed 91 Unjfie ii Seiko ii LEistrict
Equity & Excellence for All Students
Margie Sherratt, Interim Assistant Superintendent
2200 Central Avenue — Room 206E
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 337-7063

Mr. Daniel Chin


315 Sweet Road
Alameda, CA 94502

July 20, 2009

Dear Mr. Chin,

The Alameda Unified School District has received your letter dated, June 13, 2009,
indicating your intention to opt your child, Natalee Chin, out of the District's Caring
School Community supplement, Lesson 9 during the 2009-2010 school year. On May
26, 2009 the Board of Education approved the motion to adopt the Caring School
Community curriculum supplement, Lesson 9 as part of its Safe SchoolCommunity
program. Lesson 9 addresses issues of sexual orientation / gender identity. The Board's
motion and approval did not provide an opt out option.

The Alameda Unified School District is obligated to provide a safe and welcoming
environment for all students. This effort is in accordance with legal mandates set forth in
the Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000, the District's Board Policy
5145.3 (Nondiscrimination/Harassment), Education Code Section 2000, and Penal Code
Section 422.6(a). These laws and policies require that public schools prevent
discrimination and harassment against all legally protected categories of students. A
support guide is being developed by teachers to ensure that the District's policies and
practices protect all legally protected categories.

Lesson 9 will be taught within the first trimester of the 2009 —2010 school year. Specific
dates and times are not available. Providing them would be impracticable, as teachers in
different grades will integrate Lesson 9 into other educational objectives throughout the
trimester. For example, many teachers will teach Lesson 9 with the HivIlt reading series
unit on the Family. Kindergarten teachers may find it appropriate to teach the
Welcoming lesson at the beginning of the school year. Lesson 9 will not be taught on the
same date in all grade levels.

As professional educators, I am confident that our teachers will educate all of Alameda's
children in a sensitive manner.

at
Sincerely,

AlVt
Kirsten Vital Margie Sherratt
Superintendent Interim Assistant Superintendent
Alamedabilnifie SchaItistrict
Equity & Excellence for All Students
Margie Sherratt, Interim Assistant Superintendent
2200 Central Avenue — Room 206E
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 337-7063
Ms. Judy Johansing
2926 Lincoln Ave
Alameda, CA 94501

July 20, 2009

Dear Ms. Johansing,

The Alameda Unified School District has received your letter dated, June 15, 2009,
indicating your intention to opt your child, Benjamin Johansing, out of the District's
Caring School Community supplement, Lesson 9 during the 2009-2010 school year. On
May 26, 2009 the Board of Education approved the motion to adopt the Caring School
Community curriculum supplement, Lesson 9 as part of its Safe School Community
program. Lesson 9 addresses issues of sexual orientation / gender identity. The Board's
motion and approval did not provide an opt out option.

The Alameda Unified School District is obligated to provide a safe and welcoming
environment for all students. This effort is in accordance with legal mandates set forth in
the Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000, the District's Board Policy
5145.3 (Nondiscrimination/Harassment), Education Code Section 2000, and Penal Code
Section 422.6(a). These laws and policies require that public schools prevent
discrimination and harassment against all legally protected categories of students. A
support guide is being developed by teachers to ensure that the District's policies and
practices protect all legally protected categories.

Lesson 9 will be taught within the first trimester of the 2009 —2010 school year. Specific
dates and times are not available. Providing them would be impracticable, as teachers in
different grades will integrate Lesson 9 into other educational objectives throughout the
trimester. For example, many teachers will teach Lesson 9 with the HMR reading series
unit on the Family Kindergarten teachers may find it appropriate to teach the
Welcoming lesson at the beginning of the school year. Lesson 9 will not be taught on the
same date in all grade levels.

As professional educators, I am confident that our teachers will educate all of Alameda's
children in a sensitive manner.

erely,
7-114,4?
rsten Vital • Margie Sherratt
Superintendent Interim Assistant Superintendent

Aheme a Unifie Sato 1 istrict if
Equi07 & Excellence for All Students
Margie Sherratt, Interim Assistant Superintendent
2200 Central Avenue — Room 206E
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 337-7063

Tommy Cheung & Jolene Chan


250 Ratto Road
Alameda, CA 94502

July 20, 2009

Dear Mr. Cheung and Ms Chan,

The Alameda Unified School District has received your letter dated, June 25, 2009,
indicating your intention to opt your child, Jarod Cheung, out of the District's Caring
School Community supplement, Lesson 9 during the 2009-2010 school year. On May
26, 2009 the Board of Education approved the motion to adopt the Caring School
Community curriculum supplement, Lesson 9 as part of its Safe School Community.
program. Lesson 9 addresses issues of sexual orientation! gender identity. The Board's
motion and approval did not provide an opt out option.

The Alameda Unified School District is obligated to provide a safe and welcoming
environment for all students. This effort is in accordance with legal mandates set forth in
the Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000, the District's Board Policy
5145.3 (Nondiscrimination/Harassment), Education Code Section 2000, and Penal Code
Section 422.6(a). These laws and policies require that public schools prevent
discrimination and harassment against all legally protected categories of students. A
support guide is being developed by teachers to ensure that the District's policies and
practices protect all legally protected categories.

Lesson 9 will be taught within the first trimester of the 2009 — 2010 school year. Specific
dates and times are not available. Providing them would be impracticable, as teachers in
different grades will integrate Lesson 9 into other educational objectives throughout the
trimester. For example, many teachers will teach Lesson 9 with the filvIR reading series
unit on the Family. Kindergarten teachers may find it appropriate to teach the
Welcoming lesson at the beginning of the school year. Lesson 9 will not be taught on the
same date in all grade levels.

As professional educators, J am confident that our teachers will educate all of Alameda's

at'
children in a sensitive manner.
Sincerely,

ten Vital Margie Sherra


Superintendent Interim Assistant Superintendent
S.•
Ala e a Unified Sch 1 tistrict
Equity & Excellence for All Students
Margie Sherratt, Interim Assistant Superintendent
2200 Central Avenue — Room 206E
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 337-7063
Archie and Paiute Felix
1160 Old Alameda Point
Alameda, CA 94501

July 20, 2009

Dear Archie and J1 aime Felix,

The Alameda Unified School District has received your letter dated, June 14, 2009,
indicating your intention to opt your child, Keilani Felix, out of the District's Caring
School Community supplement, Lesson 9 during the 2009-2010 school year. On May
26, 2009 the Board of Education approved the motion to adopt the Caring School
Community curriculum supplement, Lesson 9 as part of its Safe School Community
program. Lesson 9 addresses issues of sexual orientation / gender identity. The Board's
motion and approval did not provide an opt out option.

The Alameda Unified School District is obligated to provide a safe and welcoming
environment for all students. This effort is in accordance with legal mandates set forth in
the Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000, the District's Board Policy
5145.3 (Nondiscrimination/Harassment), Education Code Section 2000, and Penal Code
Section 422.6(a). These laws-and policies require that public schools prevent
discrimination and harassment against all legally prcitected categories of students, A
support guide is being developed by teachers to ensure that the District's policies and
practices protect all legally protected categories.

Lesson 9 will be taught within the first trimester of the 2009 — 2010 school year. Specific
dates and times are not available. Providing them would be impracticable, as teachers in
different grades will integrate Lesson 9 into other educational objectives throughout the
trimester. For example, many teachers will teach Lesson 9 with the HMR reading series
unit on the Family. Kindergarten teachers may find it appropriate to teach the
Welcoming lesson at the beginning of the school year. Lesson 9 will not be taught on the
same date in all grade levels.

As professional educators, Jam confident that our teachers will educate all of Alameda's
children in a sensitive manner.

incerely
aV71—
Kirsten Vital Margie Sherratt
Superintendent Interim Assistant Superintendent
• •
Alameda Unified School iistrict

Equity & Excellence for All Students


Margie Sherratt, Interim Assistant Superintendent
2200 Central Avenue — Room 206E
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 337-7063

Richard & Diane Clark


10 Sable Point
Alameda, CA 94502

July 20, 2009

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Clark,

The Alameda Unified School District has received your letter dated, June 20, 2009,
indicating your intention to opt your child, Dillon Clark, out of the District's Caring
School Community supplement, Lesson 9 during the 2009-2010 school year. On May
26, 2009 the Board of Education approved the motion to adopt the Caring School
Community curriculum supplement, Lesson 9 as part of its Safe School Community
program. Lesson 9 addresses issues of sexual orientation / gender identity. The Board's
motion and approval did not provide an opt out option.

The Alameda Unified School District is obligated to provide a safe and welcoming
environment for all students. This effort is in accordance with legal mandates set forth in
the Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000, the District's Board Policy
5145.3 (Nondiscrimination/Harassment), Education Code Section 2000, and Penal Code
Section 422.6(a). These laws and policies require that public schools prevent
discrimination and harassment against all legally protected categories of students. A
support guide is being developed by teachers to ensure that the District's policies and
practices protect all legally protected categories.

Lesson 9 will be taught within the first trimester of the 2009 — 2010 school year. Specific
dates and times are not available. Providing them would be impracticable, as teachers in
different grades will integrate Lesson 9 into other educational objectives throughout the
trimester. For example, many teachers will teach Lesson 9 with the HMR reading series
unit on the Family. Kindergarten teachers may find it appropriate to teach the
Welcoming lesson at the beginning of the school year. Lesson 9 will not be taught on the
same date in all grade levels.

As professional educators, I am confident that our teachers will educate all of Alameda's

Ant"-
children in a sensitive manner

Sincerely
(VIP
en Vi Margie Sherratt
Superintendent Interim Assistant Superintendent

Alameda Unified Scho 1 'strict
Equity & Excellence for All Students
Margie Sherratt, Interim Assistant Superintendent
2200 Central Avenue — Room 206E
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 337-7063

Mikel Del Rosario


224 Inverness Court
Alameda, CA 94502

July 20, 2009

Dear Mr. Del Rosario,

The Alameda Unified School District has received your letter dated, June 19, 2009,
indicating your intention to opt your child, Josiah Del Rosario out of the District's Caring
School Community supplement, Lesson 9 during the 2009-2010 school year. On May
26, 2009 the Board of Education approved the motion to adopt the Caring School
Community curriculum supplement, Lesson 9 as part of its Safe School Community
program. Lesson 9 addresses issues of sexual orientation / gender identity. The Board's
motion and approval did not provide an opt out option.

The Alameda Unified School District is obligated to provide a safe and welcoming
environment for all students. This effort is in accordance with legal mandates set forth in
the Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000, the District's Board Policy
5145.3 (Nondiscrimination/Harassment), Education Code Section 2000, and Penal Code
Section 422.6(a). These laws and policies require that public schools prevent
discrimination and harassment against all legally protected categories of students. A
support guide is being developed by teachers to ensure that the District's policies and
practices protect all legally protected categories.

Lesson 9 will be taught within the first trimester of the 2009 — 2010 school year. Specific
dates and times are not available. Providing them would be impracticable, as teachers in
different grades will integrate Lesson 9 into other educational objectives throughout the
trimester. For example, many teachers will teach Lesson 9 with the IBM reading series
unit on the Family. Kindergarten teachers may find it appropriate to teach the
Welcoming lesson at the beginning of the school year. Lesson 9 will not be taught on the
same date in all grade levels.

As professional educators, I am confident that our teachers will educate all of ameda's
children in a sensitive manner.

Sincerely,

sten Vi Margie Sherra


Superintendent Interim Assistant Superintendent
• •
Mame a Unified Sch sl :strict
Equity & Excellence for All Students
Margie Sherratt, Interim Assistant Superintendent
2200 Central Avenue — Room 206E
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 337-7063
Jonathan Stairs
1724 Broadway
Alameda, CA 94501

July 22, 2009

Dear Mr. Stairs,

The Alameda Unified School District has received yout letter dated, July 12, 2009,
indicating your intention to opt your child, Harrison Stairs out of the District's Caring
School Community supplement, Lesson 9 during the 2009-2010 school year. On May
26, 2009 the Board of Education approved the motion to adopt the Caring School
Community curriculum supplement, Lesson 9 as part of its Safe School Community
program. Lesson 9 addresses issues of sexual orientation / gender identity. The Board's
motion and approval did not provide an opt out option.

The Alameda Unified School District is obligated to provide a safe and welcoming
environment for all students. This effort is in accordance with legal mandates set forth in
the Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000, the District's Board Policy
5145.3 (Nondiscrimination/Harassment), Education Code Section 2000, and Penal Code
Section 422.6(a). These laws and policies require that public schools prevent
discrimination and harassment against all legally protected categories of students. A
support guide is being developed by teachers to ensure that the District's policies and
practices protect all legally protected categories.

Lesson 9 will be taught within the first trimester of the 2009 —2010 school year. Specific
dates and times are not available. Providing them would be impracticable, as teachers in
different grades will integrate Lesson 9 into other educational objectives throughout the
trimester. For example, many teachers will teach Lesson 9 with the HMR reading series
unit on the Family. Kindergarten teachers may find it appropriate to teach the
Welcoming lesson at the beginning of the school year. Lesson 9 will not be taught on the
same date in all grade levels.

As professional educators, Jam confident that our teachers will educate all of Alameda's
children in a sensitive manner.

Sincerely,

rsten Vi al Margie
Superintendent Interim perintendent
• •
Ala; ;iedii Unified Salo 1 Istria'
Equity & Excellence for All Students
Margie Sherratt, Interim Assistant Superintendent
2200 Central Avenue — Room 206E
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 337-7063
Vicki Stairs
1724 Broadway
Alameda, CA 94501

July 22, 2009

Dear Ms. Stairs,

The Alameda Unified School District has received your letter dated, July 12, 2009,
indicating your intention to opt your child, Harrison Stairs out of the District's Caring
School Community supplement, Lesson 9 during the 2009-2010 school year. On May
26, 2009 the Board of Education approved the motion to adopt the Caring School
Community curriculum supplement, Lesson 9 as part of its Safe School Community
program. Lesson 9 addresses issues of sexual orientation / gender identity. The Board's
motion and approval did not provide an opt out option.

The Alameda Unified School District is obligated to provide a safe and welcoming
environment for all students. This effort is in accordance with legal mandates set forth in
the Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000, the District's Board Policy
5145.3 (Nondiscrimination/Harassment), Education Code Section 2000, and Penal Code
Section 422.6(a). These laws and policies require that public schools prevent
discrimination and harassment against all legally protected categories of students. A
support guide is being developed by teachers to ensure that the District's policies and
practices protect all legally protected categories.

Lesson 9 will be taught within the first trimester of the 2009— 2010 school year. Specific
dates and times are not available. Providing them would be impracticable, as teachers in
different grades will integrate Lesson 9 into other educational objectives throughout the
trimester. For example, many teachers will teach Lesson 9 with the HMR reading series
unit on the Family Kindergarten teachers may find it appropriate to teach the
Welcoming lesson at the beginning of the school year. Lesson 9 will not be taught on the
same date in all grade levels.

As professional educators, I am confident that our teachers will educate all of Alameda's
children in a sensitive manner.

Sincerely,

Kirsten Vital
Superintendent nt Superintendent

Ainmeda Unified School District
Equity & Excellence for All Students
Margie Sherratt, Interim Assistant Superintendent
2200 Central Avenue — Room 206E
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 337-7063
Wendy Fong
8 Ferro Ct.
Alameda, CA 94501

July 22, 2009

Dear Ms. Fong,

The Alameda Unified School District has received your letter dated, July 2, 2009,
indicating your intention to opt your children, Kendall and Mitchell out of the District's
Caring School Community supplement, Lesson 9 during the 2009-2010 school year. On
May 26, 2009 the Board of Education approved the motion to adopt the Caring School
Community curriculum supplement, Lesson 9 as part of its Safe School Community
program. Lesson 9 addresses issues of sexual orientation / gender identity. The Board's
motion and approval did not provide an opt out option.

The Alameda Unified School District is obligated to provide a safe and welcoming
environment for all students. This effort is in accordance with legal mandates set forth in
the Student Safety and Violence Prevention Act of 2000, the District's Board Policy
5145.3 (Nondiscrimination/Harassment), Education Code Section 2000, and Penal Code
Section 422.6(a). These laws and policies require that public schools prevent
discrimination and harassment against all legally protected categories of students. A
support guide is being developed by teachers to ensure that the District's policies and
practices protect all legally protected categories.

Lesson 9 will be taught within the first trimester of the 2009 — 2010 school year. Specific
dates and times are not available. Providing them would be impracticable, as teachers in
different grades will integrate Lesson 9 into other educational objectives throughout the
trimester. For example, many teachers will teach Lesson 9 with the HMR. reading series
unit on the Family. Kindergarten teachers may find it appropriate to teach the
Welcoming lesson at the beginning of the school year. Lesson 9 will not be taught on the
same date in all grade levels.

As professional educators, I am confident that our teachers will educate all of Alameda's
children in a sensitive manner.

Ki sten Vital Margi


Superintendent Interim Assis ant Superintendent

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