Dear Students and Families,
As we begin the 2025-2026 school year, we want to make you aware of a new state law that directly affects how schools communicate with families and students. In July 2024, Ohio House Bill 8, also known as the “Parents’ Bill of Rights,” officially went into effect. This law introduces several important changes related to parent notification and transparency in our schools.
Our goal is to inform you of what’s changing, explain how this may impact students and families, and emphasize our continued commitment to supporting every student while complying with the law.
Key Areas of House Bill 8
House Bill 8 outlines specific areas where schools must notify parents or guardians in advance or in response to specific situations:
- Health Screenings and Services
Parents must be notified before any school-based health screening (e.g., vision, hearing) or when a student is offered physical, emotional or mental health services at school. This notice and consent does not apply to emergency situations, first aid, other unanticipated minor health care services or health care services pursuant to a student’s IEP or 504 Plan.
- Sexuality-Related Content in Instruction
If instructional content includes topics related to sexuality, families must be notified in advance. Parents have the right to opt their child out of this instruction. The term “sexuality content” is not clearly defined in the law, and we are working carefully to interpret and apply it with clarity and consistency across all schools.
- Instructional Material Review
Parents have always had the right to review instructional materials used in classrooms including books, handouts, videos and digital resources. The law affirms this right.
- Notification of Substantial Changes to Student Well-Being
Schools are now required to notify parents if there is a substantial change in a student’s physical, emotional or mental well-being. This includes significant issues such as suicidal ideation, drastic academic changes or changes related to a student’s gender identity.
What This Means for Students
These changes affect how schools can respond to student needs and how they handle personal or sensitive information. Specifically, students should understand that some conversations or support services that may have previously remained confidential at the request of a student may now require parental notification under this law. This includes instances where students share information that may be considered a significant change in well-being.
We understand this may feel different than in years past, and we encourage students to talk with trusted adults in school or at home if they have questions or concerns about how this impacts them.
What This Means for Parents/Guardians
As a parent or guardian, you can expect:
- Advance notice of any school-based health screenings or services provided to your child. This notification will come at the beginning of each school year in your back-to-school parent portal.
- Prior notification before your child participates in instruction involving sexuality-related content along with the right to opt your child out of that instruction.
- Full access to review instructional materials being used in your child’s classes and the ability to raise concerns or request alternatives by contacting your building principal.
- Direct communication from school staff about substantial changes in your child’s physical, mental or emotional health that may indicate a need for support or further conversation.
While the intent of the law is to support parent involvement, we also recognize that these requirements may lead to sensitive discussions. We are committed to handling each situation with care, always keeping your child’s best interest at the center.
Our Commitment to You
We know that this law may raise questions or concerns. While the legal language is still being interpreted in real time across the state, we want to reassure you that:
- We are approaching this law with care, professionalism and compassion.
- We remain committed to creating safe, supportive school environments for all students.
- We will continue to partner with families in a respectful and transparent way.
- We have developed internal procedures and staff training to help navigate these changes appropriately.
Thank you for your partnership and support as we adapt to these legislative changes together. One of our core values is putting students first and we will continue to do so with integrity, respect, and clear communication. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact your school’s principal or counselor.
Sincerely,
Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools
