EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Some parents in the El Paso Independent School District have expressed concern about a new survey that will be given to students in early 2025.

EPISD plans to roll out this survey to students in 4th grade and up.

KFOX14/CBS4 has filed a formal request for those documents to find out what exactly will be asked of the students.

A question about someone’s sexual identity on a high school student survey is causing controversy.

“It serves no purpose to inform instruction about being LGBTQIA+, and therefore it was not okay to ask this question of minors,” said an anonymous teacher and parent from the district.

The EPISD Teacher and Parent Optional Question on the Equity Assessment for Grades 9-12 is:

“Do you identify as LGBTQIA+?”

The question is followed by the definition of the term LGBTQIA+.

Students can answer the question with yes, no or I prefer not to answer.

It’s a question that has caused quite a bit of debate online.

One person online said the question should NEVER be asked of a child under 18 without parental consent.

Another person posted a comment asking what the “rage” was over and if there was an option not to respond.

The survey also asks other multiple-choice and fill-in-the-blank questions, from student demographics to school climate.

According to the district’s website, the survey is part of its commitment to providing high-quality educational experiences.

However, one parent says that this specific question is not necessary to improve his children’s education

As a parent, I became extremely concerned. Why would my daughters who are in high school be asked for this information?” asked the anonymous parent. “Why does every school need to know about bisexuality?

The survey is scheduled to open on January 8, 2025.

Parents can to give up to have their child participate in this survey.

KFOX14/CBS4 reached out to the district about the survey, we’ll let you know when they respond.

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