District retains two challenged books at Monday meeting
By Jazmine Knight
The St. Joseph Board of Education voted on the fate of two more challenged books Monday evening.
The school board voted 4-2 to retain “Crank” by Ellen Hopkins, “This Book is Anti-Racist” by Tiffany Jewell. LaTonya Williams, Whitney Lanning, Mike Moore and Rick Gehring voted to retain both books with no restrictions while Rhonda Chesney and Kim Miller opposed. Isaura Garcia was absent.
Officials say “This Book is Anti-Racist” has been checked out a total of four times in the last five years. “Crank” has been checked out a total of twenty-nine times in five years, twenty-eight of which came from Central High School.
Each book was challenged because they’re considered “unsuitable for minors.” Board president, LaTonya Williams, says allowing and providing access should be most important. She reassures the public that the opinions and ideologies portrayed in the two books are not part of SJSD’s curriculum. Instead the books are an option for kids that need it.
“Of course, all books are not going to be for everyone. and they’re not a requirement,” she said. “It’s important for the board in order to provide the things our kids need in order to grow.”
She says having no restrictions on the book is beneficial for many reasons. It helps kids navigate topics that parents or adults may not understand. It can also help a child when they have questions about a topic such as drug use or how to help a friend that’s in trouble.
“Books are designed in order to help, not harm,” Williams said. “It’s always important that our kids know and understand that they’re able to get the tools needed in order to learn and to grow, even about uncomfortable or unpopular topics.”
For parents that still have concerns with their child checking out these books, Williams suggests utilizing the parent notification system. According to the district handbook, parents have the option to opt-in to daily email notifications regarding the books their child has checked out. Parents can also set restrictions on their student’s account as well.
“I think it’s a good compromise,” said Williams.
Williams suggests contacting the child’s school if parents have further concerns.
In the coming weeks, the board will soon decide to retain or ban “Looking for Alaska” by John Green, “All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George M. Johnson, “If I Was Your Girl” by Meredith Russo, “Tricks” by Ellen Hopkins, “Thirteen Reasons Why” by Jay Asher and “The ABCs of LGBTQ+” by Ash Hardell.
The St. Joseph School Board also discussed details relating to the long range plan and updates on certain bond projects.
Tonight’s long range plan discussion was centered around the necessary funding needed to create ballot language for April of 2025.
As far as the bond project updates, Williams says next month RFP’s will be coming in order to choose contractors for selected projects.
“We’re really, really excited everything is going according to plan,” she said.
