Last updated on May 14th, 2024 at 08:27 am
Controversy has erupted in Pennsylvania’s Unionville-Chadds Ford School District after a self-described “queer witch,” Deni Tobin, was brought to Unionville High School to talk about safe dating. Tobin, associated with Prana House, an organization that hosts gatherings for “queer witches,” is under scrutiny for allegedly administering an explicit, sex-themed survey without parental consent to 14-year-old students following her presentation.
Complaints surfaced amongst parents who discovered Tobin’s presentation materials were sourced from pro-abortion group Planned Parenthood and that Tobin’s social media featured content that was both sexually explicit and witch-themed. The school district has been accused of downplaying the controversy, labelling parental concerns as “misinformation.”
Local lawyer and parent, Chad Williams, unearthed that the survey asked personal questions about the students’ gender identity and sexual experiences. The school district stated that it is investigating whether the Survey policy was adhered to during these presentations. Williams contends that the survey flouts the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Pupil Protection and Privacy Amendment (PPRA).
In defense, District Superintendent John Sanville and School Board President Victoria Baratta suggested Tobin’s presentation was in line with district policy. They currently state that more information gathering is needed regarding the survey. Sanville also denied the use of Planned Parenthood resources during the session. He admitted in an email to parents that the controversial survey had been administered over seven years, potentially involving thousands of students.