Chapter 8

How to Propose Changes to Lesson Plans, Curriculums, and Policies

Overview:

Proposing changes to lesson plans, curriculums, and district policies empowers parents to advocate for improvements in their child's education, addressing issues like inclusivity, effectiveness, or alignment with community values. While individual classroom adjustments can often be handled informally through teachers or principals, broader systemic reforms - such as adopting new curriculums or revising discipline policies - typically require engagement with school boards or district committees. 

The process relies on gathering evidence, building coalitions, and leveraging legal rights to inspect materials and participate in decision-making. Persistent, collaborative efforts can lead to meaningful reforms, as seen in cases where parent-led initiatives have influenced policy changes or curriculum adoptions. Success depends on understanding local procedures and state variations, with courts generally upholding school districts' authority over curricula unless rights are violated.

Legal Framework:

Parents have limited but specific rights to influence school curricula and policies under federal and state laws, though they do not have veto power over content.

• State laws vary significantly; for example, Idaho requires districts to form curriculum adoption committees with at least 50% parents, mandating their involvement in selecting materials. In Florida, a Parental Bill of Rights outlines access to records and opt-out options, while states like Arkansas and others offer grants for parent engagement programs. 

• Open meetings laws ensure public participation in board discussions, but courts often defer to districts on curriculum unless discrimination or rights violations occur (e.g., under Titles VI, VII, IX or the First Amendment)

• Under ESSA, Title I schools must engage parents in planning and reviewing programs, including curriculum choices. Parents can request involvement in family engagement meetings to propose changes, especially for equity or improvement plans. Violations can lead to complaints with the U.S. Department of Education.

What to ask for:

• District procedures on submitting proposals, such as forms for agenda items or committee applications.

• Inquire about parent advisory or curriculum committees, including how to join or submit recommendations.

• Look for examples of past changes or model policies from other districts, and request written responses to proposals for accountability. If applicable, ask for data on student outcomes or equity to support your case.

• Steps for change:

  1. Gather your evidence.

  • Collect lesson plans, classroom materials, curriculum guides, and policies by exercising your rights under PPRA, FERPA, and state transparency laws.

  • Highlight specific passages, assignments, or practices that illustrate the problem.

  • Be a part of the solution. Research alternatives. Propose recognized curriculums, lesson frameworks, or policy models from other districts to show viable solutions.

  2. Start with the classroom and work your way outwards.

  • Start with teachers and principals, especially if your concern is a single assignment, textbook, or practice.

  • Frame the conversation as collaborative (e.g., How can we make this more inclusive/effective?).

  • Use your judgment as to whether a “casual” conversation would be better than a more “formal” email, but if you do talk to a teacher or principal, send them a follow up email confirming what was discussed and what was agreed upon. If nothing was agreed upon, briefly summarize all the different positions that were taken.

  • If the issue is broader than one assignment (e.g., district-wide materials, discipline policies, anti-discrimination rules), escalate to the superintendent’s office.

  3. Go Big.

  • Submit proposals through formal agenda requests (if your state allows them), or present them during public comment periods at school board meetings.

  • Ask that your proposal be considered as a discussion item (as a first step) and then be advanced to an action item (for a vote).

  • If your school district has a curriculum or policy committee that includes parents, volunteer to serve.

  4. Mobilize!

  • Collective action matters. Build alliances with other parents, teachers, or community groups. Boards are more responsive to collective voices.

  • Circulate petitions or open letters that demonstrate the broad backing and collective voice.

  • Reference state parental rights statutes or open meeting laws to reinforce your standing to demand change.

  • Attend meetings consistently, speak up at every opportunity, and ask allies to share sentiments supporting your proposal.

  5. Keep fighting.

  • Track whether your issue is placed on the agenda, discussed, or deferred.

  • If denied, ask for written reasons. Then submit a revised proposal.

  • Push for formal policy reviews or committee hearings.