Disappointed by the school board's decision

To the editor:

I was hugely disappointed to learn that the School Board suddenly decided to censor a series of books in the district. This must have happened without input from District Librarians or English teachers, and is micro-managing at its’ worst.

What background do they have in literature that makes them think they know more than the people who have dedicated their lives to introducing important literature to students? How can they possibly justify this? This is not their job, and risks an expensive lawsuit from the ACLU; money that should be spent on students instead.

Aren’t they aware that currently one of those censored books, the Great Gatsby, is currently being taught and has been taught for years? Will they be supplying money for schools to replace these books that are currently in the curriculum? Or in effect, are they reducing the budget for already strapped schools?

Many of these books indeed have serious issues that are brought up, but a good teacher will provide historical context for that. I cannot understand the School Board’s attempts at censorship. They should revisit the issue at their very next meeting!

Shonti Elder,

Wasilla