Teachers across California are required to participate in training programs that address issues of gender identity and sexuality. For some educators, these trainings may conflict with sincerely held religious beliefs. 

Advocates for Faith & Freedom has prepared a sample religious accommodation request that teachers may use as a starting point when seeking an exemption from participation in PRISM or similar mandatory training.  

This template letter is intended to help educators clearly articulate their religious convictions and request a lawful accommodation under applicable federal and constitutional protections. 

Important Guidance Before Using This Resource 

• Adapt the letter to reflect your own sincerely held religious beliefs. The language provided is a sample and should be modified to accurately represent your personal faith convictions and circumstances. 

• Carefully review your school district’s accommodation policies and procedures. Each district may have its own process for submitting religious accommodation requests, including required forms, deadlines, or designated contacts in Human Resources. 

• Use this template as a guide. It may be edited, expanded, or shortened depending on your specific situation and the requirements of your district. 

Teachers remain free to practice their faith and should not be compelled to affirm beliefs or viewpoints that violate their conscience. This resource is intended to assist educators who wish to respectfully request an accommodation while continuing to faithfully serve their students and communities. 

Download the sample letter below and tailor it for your situation. 

Submitting this form will add you to our newsletter list, where you’ll receive updates and insights from our team.

On June 27, 2025, the United States Supreme Court delivered a landmark decision affirming that parents have a constitutional right to shield their children from LGBTQ+ materials in public school classrooms when it conflicts with their sincerely held religious beliefs. This ruling in Mahmoud v. Taylor makes clear that the First Amendment protects the religious upbringing of children—even at school—and that schools must provide reasonable notice and opt-out options for concerned parents.

In light of this decision, we have prepared a customizable letter for parents to formally assert their rights and request that their child be exempt from exposure to any instruction or materials on gender identity, sexual orientation, or other related topics contrary to their faith. Download, personalize, and submit this letter to your school administrators  to protect your child’s education and your family’s religious freedom.

We respect your commitment to protecting your child’s innocence and your family’s religious convictions. That is why we want to equip you with the tools to take a stand. Together, we can push back against ideological overreach and uphold the God-given right of parents to raise their children according to His truth. Thank you for partnering with us to safeguard the hearts and minds of the next generation, raising them in the fear and knowledge of the Lord, and shielding them from age-inappropriate, morally confusing content.