Now that the back-to-school dust has settled, we wanted to bring you two important reminders about your rights and two ways you can take action in your local schools.
1 — GET INFORMED: CURRICULUM OPT-OUT
Did you know Texas law gives parents the right to opt their children out of public or charter school instruction that conflicts with their personal convictions or beliefs?
Exercising this right is straightforward: parents simply need to provide the school with advance written notice requesting that their child be opted out of the applicable instruction.
What does this have to do with vaccines?
Several vaccine-related topics are included in the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for students in grades K–3, 6–8, and high school. If you do not want your child participating in instruction covering these vaccine-related topics, you can exercise your right to opt out.
We’ve made it easy. Just print and complete TFVC’s curriculum opt-out form and submit it to your child’s school.
2 — GET INVOLVED: SCHOOL HEALTH ADVISORY COUNCILS
Every Texas school district is required to have a School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), and at least 50% of its members must be parents of current students.
SHACs provide an opportunity for parents and community members to have a voice in the district’s coordinated school health program. Their work can include health education, physical education, health services, nutrition, counseling, the school environment, staff wellness, and family and community involvement.
SHACs are required to meet at least four times during the school year, making them an important avenue for parents who want to be informed, engaged, and involved in decisions affecting their children.
Interested in serving on your district’s SHAC? Start by visiting your school district’s website. SHAC information is often listed under the “Health Services” department. From there, reach out to the SHAC Facilitator to ask about current vacancies and how to apply.
