Interesting. It is very interesting to read the latest reports about the Republic School District and all the commotion. I see the correct words in the articles - "alleged" and the like - but the tone of the articles conveys the message that the accusers are correct, completely in the right, and fully truthful.
What makes me wonder about these allegations is the timing.
This summer, the Republic School Board voted to take a couple of books out of it's curriculum and libraries (Twenty Boy Summer and Slaughterhouse Five) after a complain from a parent. Another book was also on the parent's list, Speak, but this book is still in the curriculum - in fact, my freshman son will be reading it in his English class this year.
When I was reading about the bans this summer, I learned that the district used the opportunity to create a process through which a book would go through for these type of decisions. I do not know the process, but the idea is that it gives an approximation to what age level the book is appropriate. If a book is considered to be appropriate for high school students in general, then it is left in the school. If it is considered to be appropriate for college-aged or older, then it is taken out. This doesn't mean that there aren't students who would be fine reading these books because they are mature or whatnot, only that IN GENERAL a book is geared to a basic age group.
When this system was applied to the books in question, two were taken out and one was left in. This is a system that can be used over and over, no matter what leadership is in place. It should be able to be used by teachers, parents, and administration alike, all coming to similar conclusions. (I hope, anyway)
Now comes the girl.
Two years later.
Do we have all the facts here? I have questions. Why so long for a news story? Why now? Why didn't this family go to the news two years ago? One year ago? Why now?
Now comes the boy.
This one just came out today, I believe.
Another special education student. More questions. Again, I ask, "Why now?"
And I believe I know the answer. I hate the answer. Really - I hate it. I hate that it's probably true and that these young, unsuspecting children and their families are being used, but I believe it's true.
It's the ACLU.
In an article I read this summer I read that the ACLU was gearing up for the charge. I read that they were preparing. I believe this is what they have dug up - are digging up - will continue to dig up.
They have had to dig deep. They have had to resort to finding fragile families who may not realize what is happening. They have not reported with documentation - they have reported with allegations. They have not reported with fact, only libel.
Now don't get me wrong - I'm not standing up and stating that the Republic School District is perfect and free of all wrongdoing - these allegations may be totally true. I just really believe that there is more behind the timing of the allegations that we are being led to believe.
Wait with me.
Watch with me.
Keep you mind open.
We will see.
And please do not use these allegations all over the news to taint your view or treatment of the staff in our schools. Over all the years, with all the teachers, these are the two problems that have surfaced. Teachers and staff do not work in schools for the money - they work for the love of the children. Remember that, and support your child's teachers with enthusiasm.
The Republic School District has prepared a Public Statement. You can find it here: http://www.republicschools.org/home
In all fairness to this very serious situation in our schools, I pray that you will read and consider both sides.
