"The purpose of this hearing is to hear testimony only," said Constance Martin, board president. Any decision to add "sexual orientation" to the policy will be made at a later meeting, she added.

The current policy states the school district cannot discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age or religion in its activities, programs or employment practices.

Thirty speakers were randomly selected from more than fifty requests to provide testimony in three-minute timeslots. Of those that spoke, the majority was area parents, and most spoke in favor of adding the clause to the policy.

But some speaking against the inclusion cited religious or moral opposition to homosexuality, and feared it would be promoted as a lifestyle.

"If the clause is entered in, it won't be long before a new (emphasis) enters the curriculum," said Diane Burke, area parent.

"Teaching adverse behavior as normal will lead students to go and try it out," she added, likening her projected experimentation to trying out a new product advertised on television.

However, area teachers said students need to be protected from all discrimination, including sexual orientation.

Katherine Simpson, former high school teacher, said she had to leave many students with sexual orientation conflicts isolated from their peers and faculty because she could not approach them.

Heinrich Bross, who said he was sexually abused when he was 12 years old, said he was unable to seek help from his teachers or peers because of homophobia in the school.

"Homophobia is a threat to all people and all people need protection," Bross said.

Less than five students testified, but all of them were in favor of adding the clause. State College high school student Jesse Belsky presented the board with a petition signed by more than 150 students who were in favor of adding the clause.

But some residents said the school's nondiscrimination policy already protects homosexual students, making the clause superfluous.

"The board has wasted many hours and no doubt many dollars discussing this ridiculous proposal," said parent Brian Kaleita. "Remember, parents put you (members) on this board and parents can remove you."

Other parents were concerned the clause could protect sexual deviants as well as homosexuals.