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Books, Textiles & Problem Solving
A perspective from Hannah Mae Jewell
Discretion is a Superpower
I am a parent and educator and I know from experience that NC senate bill 49- ‘Parents Bill of Rights’ is unwise.
“(c)
The procedures shall not prohibit parents from accessing any of their child’s education
and health records created, maintained, or used by the public school unit, except as follows:
(1)
As limited by G.S. 114A-10(6)a.
(2)
When a reasonably prudent person would believe that disclosure would result in the child becoming an abused juvenile or neglected juvenile, as those terms are defined in G.S. 7B-101.”
As a kid, I went to public school, got exceptional grades and did all the activities; sports, dance, and more. I had regular medical care for health and for cleft lip and palate treatment. Teachers, coaches, social workers, counselors, principals, dentists, doctors, and other trained professionals were in my life every day, every year, and not one of them knew that my father was hitting me at home, that my own dad was threatening my life.
My community of adults, some as close as family, had no direct knowledge that I was an abused juvenile because my father was brilliant, controlling and rather charming. My dad was the dad that drove a motorcycle AND baked cookies for school events, he was cute too, and just about anything that triggered his shame and anger could turn him on me.
It is not reasonable or prudent to assume that a child’s home is safe from abuse or neglect, to assume that all children are being treated with healthy care, support and respect every day at home. It is not reasonable or prudent to assume that a child’s home is free from complex physical and emotional trauma, to assume that one would always know if a child is not safe at home. It is not reasonable or prudent to believe that a child who is not communicating openly with their own parents/caregivers is safe with their own parents/caregivers.
That is facts. No cap, as the kids say.
We all show up, with our knowledge, skills and training to do the best that we can to meet children where they are to give them the best chance we can. That’s the deal in education and in parenting, even better when it is a collaborative effort.
I understand the spirit of senate bill 49 and I encourage parents direct, supportive involvement in our children’s education. I don’t just say that, I walk the walk.
I would freely share my story with any parent or teacher, and I am sure that any reasonably prudent person would understand why I would prioritize respecting other people’s privacy with care.
The unintended consequences of violating another person’s privacy can be catastrophic, especially where children are involved, that is where the rubber meets the road.
MY story is the only story I have any business sharing. I am the universe’s only expert on me just as everyone else is the universe’s ONLY expert on themselves, that principle extends to children fully and I intend to listen when someone shares their story with me.
Listen and support.
I feel comfortable trusting my discretion, and I believe that you can trust yours too.
I encourage you to protect children and their privacy.
As for me, If the state feels the need to compel me to speak something about a child then it is the state’s burden to prove to me beyond a shadow of a doubt that the child is in a safe and supportive home. They have their work cut out for them, I wish them well.
“Viewpoints” on Chapelboro is a recurring series of community-submitted opinion columns. All thoughts, ideas, opinions and expressions in this series are those of the author, and do not reflect the work or reporting of 97.9 The Hill and Chapelboro.com.
