Apr 27, 2006 7:04 pm US/Eastern
Lexington Parents Sue Town Over Same-Sex Books
LEXINGTON (CBS4) ―
Two families are suing the town of Lexington, several school administrators and a teacher over the issue of parental rights and children's books about same-sex marriage.
The Parker and Wirthlin families claim their civil rights were violated because the town and school system interfered with their parental rights by teaching homosexual topics to their children.
Last month, a second grade teacher read a book titled, "King and King", to her class.
In the fairy tale, a prince passes up several princesses and falls in love with another prince. The publisher says "King and King" is intended for children 6 and older.
Some parents, including the Wirthlins were upset because the school did not notify them in advance.
Robin Wirthlin said she had every intention to teach her son about homosexuality, but not until she felt he was ready.
Joseph Wirthlin said his child is still attending the public schools. "Unfortunately, we can't tell him to listen carefully to what your teacher says and believe everything she says," he said. "That shocks me."
"Essentially what we're asking from the schools, is to partner with the schools and give us information we deem is important and relevant in guiding them in their lives, " said David Parker.
Parker was arrested last year for trespassing at the Estabrook school while complaining about a same-sex book that was read to his kindergarten age son.
School Superintendent Paul Ash issued this written statement, "The Lexington School system is committed to creating an environment that is warm and welcoming to everyone. Lexington is a diverse community that respects all of its students and parents.
(© 2006 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
