In response to recent proposals by the Tillamook School District Board, the Tillamook County Democrats have adopted a resolution supporting school curriculum that recognizes and respects the rich diversity in our community. Tillamook County Democrats site the following as two of the many reasons for adopting this resolution:
The Oregon Department of Education states: “It is a policy of the State Board of Education and a priority of the Oregon Department of Education that there will be no discrimination or harassment on the grounds of race, color, sex, marital status, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, or disability in any educational programs, activities or employment.” (Source: www.oregon.gov/ode/students-and-family/equity/civilrights/Pages/default.aspx)
The Oregon Legislature passed HB 2845 in 2017 requiring instruction of public school students in kindergarten through grade 12 in the histories, contributions, and perspectives of ethnic minorities, women, people with disabilities, immigrants, refugees, and individuals who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.in Oregon. (Source: olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2021R1/Downloads/PublicTestimonyDocument/2928)
The resolution was adopted on January 27, 2022, and states that the Tillamook County Democrats are resolved to support: 1) educators who teach diversity in their classrooms; 2) school-board members who support curricula that teach diversity in schools as mandated in state and federal laws; 3) continued constructive parental involvement in the education of their children, with a balanced approach for all diverse groups; and 4) an educational system that provides students with multiple views, encouraging them to ask thoughtful questions and become informed decision-making citizens. Finally, Tillamook County Democrats resolve to continue advocating in the community for public school curricula which reflect and celebrate the diversity in our community.