BARNEGAT – Mayor Alfonso Cirulli made headlines this week with his anti-LGBTQ sentiments regarding new curriculum to be implemented in New Jersey Schools.
In response to parent concerns, Superintendent of the Barnegat School District Dr. Brian Latwis released a statement.
“As the Superintendent of Barnegat Schools I am charged with ensuring the students of the district are provided a complete, thorough, rigorous, relevant, and inclusive educational program,” stated Dr. Latwis. “At this time we have not been provided with specific direction on changes to implement…However, regardless of what we do, I want each of you to know that Barnegat schools will do everything we can to navigate challenges and difficult situations with sensitivity to all members of this Barnegat family.”
In the statement, Dr. Latwis emphasizes that the district aims to provide a “complete and appropriate educational experience” that is supportive of all members of the community.
“Every student in the district is an individual. For unique individuals, our vision is to meet the needs of each student,” he added.
Cirulli condemned the legislation, calling it an “affront to almighty God.”
“Sometimes laws are introduced with the best intentions but sometimes they go overboard…from my observation, we’ve crossed over the line into absurdity,” Cirulli said.
The legislation Cirulli is referring to is S1569, which Governor Murphy signed into law on January 31, 2019. The bill requires school districts to “include instruction, and adopt instructional materials, that accurately portray political, economic, and social contributions of persons with disabilities and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people.”
The law would take effect during the 2020-2021 school year.
