House Bill 8 - Parents Bill of Rights

As we begin the 2025-2026 school year, we want to share important information about a new state law that affects how schools communicate with parents and guardians. Ohio House Bill 8—commonly called the Parents’ Bill of Rights—is a law that strengthens the ways parents are informed and involved in their child’s education, health, and overall well-being.

Many of these practices have already been part of how Groveport Madison partners with families, but House Bill 8 establishes new requirements that we want you to understand. Below is an overview of the areas the law covers and how they apply in our schools.
 

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:

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.

Thank you for your partnership and support as we adapt to these legislative changes together. Our number one priority at Groveport Madison Schools is maintaining the safety and well-being of our students, and we will continue to do so with integrity, respect, and clear communication.