Nova Classical Academy is in the news today. This is the school both of my kids attend and have for years. It’s in the news because a few families have responded to anti-bullying efforts at the school by renting space and bringing in the Minnesota Family Council (sponsors of the Parent Action League, named as an anti-gay hate group by the SPLC).

Nova’s facility rental policy left things open to anyone who showed up with the necessary insurance and a check. I think this type of scenario didn’t occur to anyone when the policy was written.

The Minnesota Family Council does not represent Nova. Not only does it not reflect Nova’s values, it is antithetical to the values my children are learning at Nova. MFC is explicitly pro-bullying; they want to see GSAs (supportive organizations for queer kids and allies) eliminated and books censored. They endorse completely discredited, abusive tactics such as conversion therapy, and they want to force teachers to be their mouthpiece for homophobia and transphobia. None of that is what Nova stands for.

Not only do I stand with the targeted family against bullies both inside and outside the school, I will stand between those bullies and the vulnerable kids they are targeting any chance I get.