Aerial view of Pennridge High School in Perkasie, Pa. (Pennridge School District)
Pennridge School Board members overturned a controversial ban on pride flags and a policy that barred teachers from discussing LGBTQ+ issues with students.
Pennridge School Board voted five to four on Monday to overturn the “Advocacy Activities” policy that was drafted by the Independence Law Center, a Harrisburg based anti-LGBTQ+ organization connected to the Family Research Council, and passed by the board in Sept. 2022.
The policy called for so-called “neutrality” in classrooms throughout the Bucks County school district and prohibited staff from talking to students about LGBTQ+ issues in the classroom.
It also prohibited teachers and students from hanging pride flags, symbols and “safe space” stickers for LGBTQ+ students in classrooms and hallways.
Silas Nathan, a transgender student, told WHYY last year, after the policy was passed, that “it’s like being queer was erased from Pennridge.”
Laura Foster, an East Rockhill Township resident, thanked the school board for overturning the policy during Monday’s public comment.
Democrats flipped the Pennridge School Board in Nov. 2023 after sweeping five open seats. At the time, Republicans controlled the board by an eight to one margin.
“I also want to thank the majority of the board for focusing on what our community wants over the last year and what our community voted for. Not what the Independence Law Center and outside lobbying groups want for our school,” Foster said.
“The advocacy policy at its core undermines the fundamental trust in connection between students and the educators they look to for guidance, care and understanding. Teachers and school staff are not just instructors.”
“They are mentors, they are role models and lifelines for the countless children facing challenges that extend far beyond the classroom. Removing this policy would ensure that our educators can do what any professional working with children should be empowered to do. Offer support, listen without fear and connect students to the care that they need.”
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