The rights of parents to direct the education and healthcare of their children are protected under A.R.S. 1-602, also known as the Parents’ Bill of Rights.
Despite this clear law, Scottsdale school board candidate Mike Sharkey announced his campaign on LinkedIn by sharing his concerns. “There’s been an uptick in the ‘parents’ right’ movement. This is the notion that parents are best situated to make educational and healthcare decisions for their kids,” wrote Sharkey. “While I am 100% in support of parents working with teachers and doctors, I reject the premise that parents know better than experienced/trained professionals.”
On Sept. 2, Arizona attorney Bryn DeFusco endorsed Mr. Sharkey, and echoed his skepticism towards parents’ rights. DeFusco, who encased the phrase in quotes, criticized the notion and expressed worry about parents bringing up “sensational topics.” Her stance suggests a preference for board members who might override Arizona law, giving others the final say in children’s lives—a surprising position for a practicing attorney.
In contrast, school board candidates Gretchen Jacobs, Jeanne Beasley and Drew Hassler are campaigning to reinforce parents’ rights and ensure they are respected within the Scottsdale Unified School District. A recent post on the Jacobs, Beasley, Hassler social media accounts states: “Parents' rights are not up for debate. They are the law. Our public schools are stronger when parents are involved and respected.”
Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.
