CALEDONIA, Mich. — The Caledonia School Board unanimously voted to keep their policy that prohibits teachers, staff and other district personnel from talking with students about abortion, something that was met with applause from the crowd Monday evening.
"Are you going to provide this counseling that this young woman is going to need for the rest of her life? I don't think you will," said a concerned parent during public comment.
Before the vote took place, those were the types of concerns that many shared with the board about any changes to the policy.
During that meeting, Treasurer Jason Saidoo made a statement that fired up parents across the community.
"Option One, rescinding the policy, takes the politics out of it, and leaves the interest of the students in the hands of the teachers that can make the best decision for them," said Saidoo.
Last year, a state law was repealed that forced school districts to adopt a policy prohibiting staff and teachers from talking to students about abortion access.
The school board took another look at the policy because there is no longer a state law backing it.
Even district staff members shared their thoughts, saying they would be personally impacted by any decision made.
"Staff often don't know much, if anything, about a student's religious conviction, or the various faiths represented here in our district," said the staff member. "So this makes us highly unqualified to speak into their situation about unplanned pregnancy."
Previously, Saidoo said that his comments were taken out of context, and said he still believes in parents' rights.
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