EXEMPTIONS FROM REQUIRED INSTRUCTION--REGULATIONS

GENERAL PROCEDURES

A. The student and/or parent(s) will meet with the teacher(s) to review the specific topic or areas of curriculum in question. The student/parent will describe their concerns giving the teacher the opportunity to explain the rationale of the topic/curriculum and delivery. If the student/parent requests to be released from all or a portion of the topic/curriculum being taught, the teacher will provide equivalent educational alternatives.

B. If the student/parent and teacher cannot reach an appropriate agreement, either or both may request a meeting with the principal or other appropriate administrator. A written request for release from instruction must be submitted prior to this meeting.

The request must include the following:

1. Name of student and grade level;

2. Name of teacher and class/course;

3. Topic, material and/or methods in question;

4. Reason(s) for objections and/or concerns; and

5. Preferred alternative.

C. Should the student, parent(s), teacher(s) and administrator fail to reach an agreement through the process outlined above, the student/parent should then contact the superintendent.

D. If this is unsatisfactory, the individual(s) may petition the School Committee for a public or private hearing. After hearing objections and concerns, and giving careful consideration to them, the vote of the School Committee is considered the final remedy.

Adopted: AUGUST 17, 1994