Burlington School Survey Sparks Parental Outrage, Probe

Parents and students in Burlington, Massachusetts, are outraged after both middle and high school students, including children as young as 11, were given a health survey containing graphic questions about sexual behavior, gender identity, and other sensitive topics. Some parents who opted their children out of the Youth Risk Behavior Survey found the survey was still administered, leading to federal complaints and accusations of violating parental rights. The survey, used for over a decade as part of a CDC data collection effort, reportedly contained more explicit content this year due to changes made by a private consultant. Many parents and students criticized the questions as inappropriate, prompting calls for accountability and the superintendent's resignation. The school district has acknowledged failures in the opt-out process, ended its work with the consultant, and launched an independent investigation. While some parents supported the survey's focus on health issues, most objected to the explicit content and lack of consent.