MJUSD
DIVISION 5000
STUDENTS

REFUSAL TO HARM OR DESTROY ANIMALS
The Governing Board supports the right of students to refrain from participating in instruction that involves dissecting or otherwise harming or destroying animals when they have a moral objection to such activities.

Students shall not be discriminated against because of a decision to exercise this right. (Education Code 32255.1)

After notifying the teacher of his/her objection pursuant to law and administrative regulations, the student shall be excused from the project and may be provided an appropriate alternative project. The Board encourages staff, whenever possible, to provide an alternative project that teaches the same knowledge and skills as the original project. In any case, staff shall ensure the effective use of student's time by providing instructional activities relevant to the course of study.

Legal Reference:
Education Code
32255-32255.6 Student's right to refrain from harmful/destructive use of animals
48980 Parental notification at the beginning of term
48981-48984 Method and content of notification; signature required

First Reading: 5/24/01

Governing Board Adoption: 6/13/01