Opting Out

Saying 'No' to Military Recruitment

South Whidbey High School juniors and seniors have a chance to decline to receive mail or phone calls from military recruiters and to protect their personal information from release to the recruiters.

The No Child Left Behind legislation mandates that military recruiters have access to high schools for the purpose of enlisting juniors and seniors into the military. It also states that schools must release a students personal information to the Pentagon. This means that military recruiters can call you on your phone, send you recruiting information in the mail, etc.

If you want to say NO to this, you have an option under the law. Sign the yellow Opt Out form which has been sent home by the High School to each junior and senior. Parents can sign, and so can students, even those under the age of 18.

Last year over 50% of S. Whidbey juniors and seniors opted out. This year lets make it 75%! Even if you opt out, you may still be contacted because, as we know, the collection of personal data in this country by the government is increasing.

However, signing an Opt Out form is a great first step, and a symbolic gesture that says you refuse to participate in the senseless violence which is the Iraq War.

Members of Whidbey Peace and Reconciliation www.PRN.org have available free Ive Opted Out buttons for any student who signs the form. These buttons will be available inside and outside of the school. Look for them during the first few days of school. If you havent received your Opt Out form yet, please call the High School to request a form.

And girls, dont forget to sign the Opt Out form. Uncle Sam wants you as well as the guys!