Statement from Education Law Center on U.S. Supreme Court Decision in Mahmoud v. Taylor

Today’s Supreme Court decision in Mahmoud v. Taylor is a painful setback for equity in public education. By allowing parents to opt their children out of classroom materials—including those with LGBTQ+ content—on the basis of religious objections, the Court has opened the door to policies that burden schools and undermine inclusive teaching. As Education Law Center argued in its amicus brief submitted to the Supreme Court, requiring districts to identify potentially objectionable content and notify parents imposes impractical demands, invites federal courts to micromanage instruction, and chills efforts to create welcoming classrooms for all students.

According to ELC Executive Director Robert Kim, “The Court’s decision frustrates schools’ efforts to build inclusive learning environments through the curriculum and places undue stress on students who are already vulnerable to exclusion and marginalization. But there are myriad ways in which schools foster inclusivity and equity. Today’s decision does not affect the ability of public schools to adopt inclusive curricula, nor does it relieve the responsibility of our schools to ensure welcoming, safe, and respectful learning environments for all students, including LGBTQ+ students.”

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Press Contact:
Sharon Krengel
Director of Policy, Strategic Partnerships and Communications
skrengel@edlawcenter.org
973-624-1815, x240