More students than ever before are voicing their objection to animal dissection.  As a result, some school districts are now instituting student choice policies and whole states have passed student choice laws.  These policies guarantee the right of a student who has a moral objection to dissection to use a non-animal alternative without being penalized. 

While many students are succeeding in convincing their teachers and school districts to allow them to use a non-animal alternative, it is often an uphill battle for the student.  Resistance to “how things have always been” can be strong and students are often subjected to harassment and intimidation. 

The NAVS Dissection Hotline is the nation’s only toll-free service (1-800-922-FROG) providing information, counseling and support for students, parents and teachers who object to dissection.  The Hotline is staffed by knowledgeable, caring individuals who assist students who do not want to dissect animals, yet want to pursue scientific endeavors.  Any student, teacher, parent or school district interested obtaining information on alternatives to dissection in the classroom is welcome to call the NAVS Dissection Hotline for help. 

In addition, NAVS has prepared a series of handbooks geared specifically to the different needs of students at the elementary, high school and college level that can be downloaded for immediate assistance.  (Please note that you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view these files.)

  Saying No To Dissection:  A Handbook for Elementary Students
  Objecting To Dissection:  A High School Student’s Handbook
  Objecting To Dissection:  A College Student’s Handbook

For those individuals seeking alternatives to animals in the classroom, visit the Biology Education Advancement Program (BioLEAP) for an in-depth description of the models, computer software and other state-of-the-art educational materials offered free-of-charge to interested parties.  All materials in our library are available on a free loan basis.

For those interested in what other actions one can take to help eliminate the use of animals in the classroom (passing a student choice policy in your school), visit Action You Can Take.