Dear Families,
Each year, the Arizona Legislature passes legislation that goes into effect on September 24th. Sometimes that legislation directly affects what happens in the classroom; sometimes, they don’t. This past session, the Governor signed HB 2707, which amended A.R.S. § 15-506. The new Arizona Moment of Silene law requires all K-12 public schools to set aside at least one minute at the beginning of every school day for a moment of silent reflection. Students are prohibited from interfering with other students' participation in the moment of silence. In addition, all school personnel is prohibited from suggesting the content of the reflection.
Within the law, however, the school must encourage parents to discuss how to use the movement of silence with their children. As you discuss this law with your students, please keep in mind that the law prohibits students from interfering with other students' participation in the moment of silence, both verbal and nonverbal. These interferences could include:
Speaking
Making noises such as humming, chanting, singing, or laughing
Touching or poking others
Passing notes
Excessive movement
Embarrassing others for participating
Waving a flag, or
Playing music
Some verbal and non-verbal activities that are not considered interference include:
Sitting on the ground
Using hands for prayer
Telling other students what they contemplated or what they will contemplate
Silently writing or reading
Closing one's eyes, or
Looking at or watching other students participate in the moment of silence.
Under State law, we cannot encourage topics for reflection as a school. These topics must be left solely to the student and you, as their parent or guardian.
Park and Hulet Elementary intend to do this Moment of Silence during the morning announcements before the instructional day begins. We will cue students by saying, “Let's begin our moment of silence,” after at least one minute passes, we will conclude by saying, “Thank you, please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.”
Before Monday, September 26th, please have a conversation with your children about how they may spend their Moment of Silence and encourage them to be respectful of those who participate, even if your child chooses not to participate.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Respectfully,
Kevin Fosburgh, Principal
KFosburg@holbrook.k12.az.us
928-524-6181