Opt-Out Process

Opting Out of the "Circle of Grace" Children's Program

The Diocese of Madison takes very seriously its commitment to protecting our children by every means available.  This includes helping young people better understand their intrinsic dignity and worth as children of God and to navigate some of the dangers our culture throws at them.  To that end, age-appropriate resources are presented annually to all young people in diocesan catechetical programs, both in schools and parish RE programs. 

However, some parents may choose to present this instruction themselves to their own children.  Those parents who take upon themselves this responsibility and choose to opt out of this portion of their children's RE programs  do so by submitting an "Opt-Out Form."  

Administrators of the "Circle of Grace" program should follow the steps below when an opt-out situation arises:

1. When approached by a parent or guardian who has concerns or issues with the program or has turned in an Opt-Out form, find out exactly what is troubling them and whether it can be resolved.
2. If, after discussion, the parent/guardian insists that they do not want their child to participate, ask them to sign the “Opt-Out” form.
3. Give the parent/guardian the appropriate lesson plan(s) for their child(ren) and ask them to use it in teaching their child(ren).
4. Tell the parent/guardian that they are welcome to join the program with their child at any session in the future.
5. Document on the form the issues/concerns voiced by the parent.
6. If the parent/guardian refuses to sign the “OPT-OUT” form, you should document their issues/concerns and sign the form, noting specifically who refused to sign.
7. Keep the form on file at the parish/school.
8. Don't forget to include the number of Opt-Outs when completing the program follow-up report. 

(These steps help us hold ourselves accountable as a Diocese to the integrity of our efforts, as well as help us improve our efforts when necessary.)