Indiana Elementary School Sparks Backlash for Allowing Parents to Opt Out of Black History Month

An elementary school in Indiana is receiving online scrutiny after one of its counselors allegedly sent a letter to parents giving them the choice to opt their children out of Black history lessons.

This week, a photo of the alleged letter began circulating around social media in which a counselor at Sprunica Elementary School in Nineveh, Indiana, informed parents that lessons pertaining to Valentine’s Day and Black History Month would occur from February 14th to 25th.

"February is a time for caring and growing for our students. In honor of Black History Month and Valentine's Day, I will be coming around and teaching lessons related to equity, caring and understanding differences," the alleged letter, signed by school counselor Benjamin White, said.

However, the alleged letter gave parents the chance to opt their children out of these lessons, which “can provide a great impact on students and help facilitate a better environment for all.”

After the post went viral, an overwhelming number of social media users expressed disappointment towards the alleged letter.

“This tweet sums up everything that is wrong with our society now. Zero compassion for anyone,” one Twitter user wrote.

“This is wrong. Parents should not have authority to hand-pick a child's curriculum in public schools. Public schooling should teach kids what education experts believe they need to know. It should not allow public money to fund the bigotry echo chamber of individual parents,” a commenter said.

"Why would this even be an option?" another added.

On Wednesday, 13News reached out to the counselor who wrote the letter and was referred to superintendent Emily Tracy.

The outlet said Tracy sent a letter to parents and staff on Wednesday, and then gave 13News — and other outlets — a statement in which they said they are “[determining] the justification for the language included in the letter.”

"Our district supports teaching about the facts in our history including historical injustices. We are and will continue to be committed to having compassion for all and supporting an education community that will allow all students, staff, families and community members the opportunity to feel welcome.”