Parent Opt-Out FAQ (Updated for 2025 NJDOE Guidance)

What is the Parent Opt-Out Law in New Jersey?

Under N.J.S.A. 18A:35-4.7, parents/guardians may request to have their child excused from specific portions of instruction that conflict with their sincerely held moral or religious beliefs. This has traditionally applied to content within the Comprehensive Health and Physical Education (CHPE) curriculum.

What changed under the updated 2025 NJ guidance?

Following recent state guidance, school districts must now:

  • Provide a clear, accessible process for submitting a signed parent opt-out request to the building principal.

  • Publicly post curriculum pacing guides and lists of core instructional materials so parents can review content in advance.

  • Ensure that excused students receive alternative instruction or supervised activities and are not penalized in any way.

  • These additions expand transparency and ensure families can make informed decisions.

What can parents request to opt out of?

Parents may request to opt out of specific lessons or topics when they conflict with sincerely held moral or religious beliefs.

 Common examples include portions of:

  • Family Life Education

  • Human Development or Sexuality Instruction

  • Reproductive Health topics

  • Other defined sections of CHPE where a belief-based conflict exists

  • The request must specify the exact lessons or topics involved.

Are there lessons that cannot be opted out of?

Yes. Certain areas of instruction are required by state law and cannot be excused.

 

Examples include:

  • Instruction on contributions of individuals with disabilities and LGBTQ+ individuals

  • Other content mandated by state statute that falls outside CHPE opt-out provisions

How do parents submit an opt-out request?

Parents must provide a written statement to their child’s building principal. (Email is acceptable)

The request must include:

  • The specific topic(s) or lesson(s) the parent is requesting exclusion from

  • A brief statement that the content conflicts with the family’s moral or religious beliefs

What happens when a student is opted out?

Students will be:

  • Excused only from the identified lesson(s)

  • Provided with alternative activities or supervised instruction, as required by law

  • Not penalized academically, in grading, or in course credit

Where can parents review curriculum content?

Curriculum for all grade levels and content areas is posted on the Midland Park Public Schools website. Parents may also contact their school principal with additional questions or to access specific materials.