Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Education
 
Board
State Board of Education
 
chapter
Regulations Governing Local School Boards and School Divisions [8 VAC 20 ‑ 720]
Action Amendments Regarding Use of Controversial or Sensitive Instructional Materials
Stage NOIRA
Comment Period Ended on 1/15/2014
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12/19/13  11:36 am
Commenter: Sandra Parks

Please reject this proposed regulation.
 

The proposed regulation to require teachers to list, in detail, all potentially "sensitive or controversial" material is an onerous regulation in terms of paperwork, to begin with. In addition, the definition of "sensitive or controversial" is vague, and open to interpretation by individuals with a particular agenda. In the interest of intellectual freedom, and to aid in developing the ability to think critically, students need a wide range of  materials to read. The effect of the proposed regulation would be to limit that range, possibly to a narrowly "approved" list. There is already a procedure in place in each school division to reconsider materials if such action is necessary. Please reject this regulation. Thank you.

CommentID: 29728