Major Update in Student Privacy Rights and Educator Protections! 🚨
Governor Gavin Newsom has just signed Assembly Bill (AB) 1955, known as the "Support Academic Futures and Educators for Today’s Youth Act" or “SAFETY Act.” This new legislation, effective July 15, 2024, introduces significant changes to California's Education Code, aiming to protect both students' privacy and educators' rights. Here’s what you need to know:
Key Provisions of the SAFETY Act:
Protection Against Retaliation (Effective January 1, 2025)
Education Code Section 220.1: Local educational agencies are prohibited from retaliating against employees for supporting students in exercising their rights or providing instruction consistent with state standards, including the California Healthy Youth Act.
Confidentiality of Student Information (Effective Immediately)
Education Code Section 220.3: School employees and contractors are not required to disclose information about a student’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression without the student’s consent unless mandated by state or federal law.
Prohibition on Mandatory Disclosure Policies (Effective Immediately)
Education Code Section 220.5: Schools and their governing bodies cannot enforce policies requiring staff to disclose a student’s sexual orientation or gender identity without the student’s consent, reinforcing the importance of student privacy.
Support for LGBTQ+ Students and Families (Effective January 1, 2025)
Education Code Section 217: The State Department of Education is tasked with developing and updating resources to support LGBTQ+ students and their families, ensuring a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.
Implications for Educators and Schools:
The SAFETY Act clarifies and strengthens the rights of both students and educators, fostering a safer and more inclusive school environment. However, it also raises questions about voluntary disclosures and the interplay between these new laws and ongoing state and federal litigation.
Focused Edu Staffing Group is committed to keeping our community informed about these critical changes. We encourage all school districts, county offices of education, and charter schools to stay updated on legal developments and seek guidance as needed.