Parent-Rights Cases Against Schools Fail To Make Inroads

By Mark Walsh

Among those who disagree with public school policies on such troublesome issues as sex education, condom distribution, and school prayer, the buzzword these days is "parental rights."

But religious conservatives and other parents who assert that school districts are violating their right to direct their children's upbringing are not getting very far in the courts. Several recent decisions have upheld the authority of school districts against such accusations.

And during its current term, the U.S. Supreme Court has declined appeals from parents in three cases in which parental-rights claims were a central element. Though such denials of review are not rulings on the merits of each case, observers say the high court does not appear eager to delve into the issue....