Fremont County is large, diverse, and filled with opinions, or “talk in the 10.” “Talk in the 10” is an opportunity for you, our readers, to articulate and share your thoughts about what is happening in the community with the community. Letters may have been edited for clarity and length, but generally have been published exactly as received. The views expressed in the following are solely those of the author. Send your letters to our editors by emailing opinion@county10.com
Do schools have a duty to report to parents changes in their child’s educational, physical, mental, or emotional wellbeing? Should this even be a question? Of course they do. Recently, Lander’s Fremont County School District #1 passed a policy affirming these parental rights. However, several people spoke in opposition to this policy, claiming to be concerned for the safety of “queer” students. The main argument against the policy seemed to be that parents will become a danger to their own children when this type of information is shared with them. Does child abuse exist? Absolutely. Is it pervasive in our community? Absolutely not! If there is evidence that a child is truly in danger, then mandatory reporters in our schools must report this to the police or DFS. Outside of these rare circumstances, any adult making unfounded accusations about parents being a danger to their own children should be looked at with suspicion. Those driving a wedge between children and parents by smearing parents do not have the best interest of children in mind. For these people, politics seems to trump the wellbeing of children. A child’s parents have their best interest at heart and a parent’s care is vital, precious, and irreplaceable. Parents are the ones who love and support their child more than anyone else. All children deserve and need this support. Our schools should be partnering with parents rather than hiding information about a child who is struggling with difficult issues. Fortunately our Lander Schools are full of educators that value parents and recognize the vital role parents play in the lives of their children.
Scott Jensen
Lander