Action | Amendments Regarding Use of Controversial or Sensitive Instructional Materials |
Stage | NOIRA |
Comment Period | Ends 1/15/2014 |
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I wholeheartedly agree with so many of the comments already posted here. Most importantly, this amendment would take away student choice in reading, which is absolutely critical.
This recommendation is inappropriate on a variety of different levels. The rationale behind it is to protect parents and their children from potentially controversial material in the classroom. However, what this regulatory action will actually do is create a mountain of paperwork for teachers, schools, and districts. I can’t imagine the length of an average classroom syllabus if teachers needed to include “a notice to parents about any sensitive or sexually explicit materials that may be included in the course, the textbook, or any supplemental instructional materials”. The syllabus would possibly be the length of a book itself.
While I believe strongly in keeping the lines of communication open with teachers, students, and parents, this regulatory action will do no such thing. Parents are very capable of discussing any concerns they have about specific reading materials with their children’s teachers. They do not need a lengthy syllabus from each class discussing any “potential” problems.
Please do not pass this amendment.