The state of Michigan is currently at the center of a debate concerning education policy, following a legislative exchange involving a top official and the subsequent adoption of new sex education guidelines. The controversy highlights a growing national discussion over school curriculum, parental rights, and the teaching of sensitive topics like gender identity.
Story Highlights
- Michigan Chief Deputy Superintendent Dr. Sue Carnell’s response regarding the number of genders during an October 28, 2025, legislative hearing drew widespread attention and criticism.
- On November 13, 2025, the Michigan State Board of Education approved updated health and sex education standards that include recommendations for teaching gender identity and sexual orientation.
- The new guidelines maintain parents’ right to opt their children out of sex education, but critics argue the standards represent government overreach.
- Legislative committees have issued subpoenas to the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) for internal communications related to the new standards, seeking transparency.
Official’s Legislative Testimony Sparks Debate
During a legislative hearing on October 28, 2025, Michigan Chief Deputy Superintendent Dr. Sue Carnell was asked by Republican state Rep. Jay DeBoyer how many genders exist. Dr. Carnell responded that “different people have different beliefs on that,” stating a focus on inclusivity. The exchange was widely shared online, with conservative commentators and social media accounts voicing criticism that the response failed to provide a definitive answer on a sensitive topic.
This incident became a focus for critics, including conservative lawmakers and parents, who contend the response reflects a broader trend regarding ideological approaches in public education. They argue for a curriculum focused on factual information and have raised concerns about oversight of curriculum development.
The Superintendent for the state of Michigan is asked how many genders are there:
“Different people have different beliefs on that.”
How did we let these people get power within our schools?
— Derrick Evans (@DerrickEvans4WV) November 17, 2025
New Health and Sex Education Standards Approved
In November 2025, the Michigan State Board of Education voted to approve updated health and sex education standards. The new guidelines, officially adopted on November 13, 2025, include recommendations for instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation. Proponents state the standards are research-based and inclusive. They also noted that the guidelines do not mandate instruction on these topics, and local school districts retain control over curriculum implementation. Furthermore, parents maintain the right to opt their children out of sex education classes.
Opponents of the new standards have characterized them as governmental overreach and a challenge to traditional family values. The adoption of the standards has led to increased political scrutiny, with legislative committees issuing subpoenas to the MDE for internal communications related to the development of the guidelines.
Broader Policy Implications
The controversy surrounding Dr. Carnell’s testimony and the adoption of the new educational standards reflects national discussions over curriculum content, parental rights, and the government’s role in education.
The incident highlights the challenges facing schools in addressing gender diversity. Supporters of the new curricula argue that inclusive instruction is necessary to support the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ students. Conversely, critics claim such policies may undermine parental rights and religious liberties. The debate is expected to continue as local districts assess implementation and as legislative and public scrutiny persists.
Watch the report: Sue C. Carnell can’t say how many genders exist
Sources
Top Michigan official sparks online firestorm when asked to name number of genders: ‘Beyond embarrassing’.
Mich. education official’s response to ‘how many genders are there’ sparks fury: ‘Crazy as hell’
