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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12/16/13  1:54 pm
Commenter: Aggie Craft, Charlottesville City Schools

Use of Controversial Materials
 

What consititutes sensitive material? Who is to say whose opinion is correct? This is a lose/lose situation. It is inevitable that no matter how much is disclosed about any given book, someone could find it offensive.

What educators have said thus far in this strand is spot on. We are preparing students to be successful by allowing them to discover their own limits, learn how to make good decisions in difficult situations, and becoming literate citizens by engaging in wide reading and writing.  

Research has shown time and time again that giving adolescents choice in reading material will result in more reading. This is precisely what we need. Teachers are embracing research-based practices that support giving students choices in reading. When students and/or parents are uncomfortable with a selection, offer another choice. Problem solved!

This is, indeed a slippery slope. Do not take decisions away from teachers or students about what they read. Do not take teachers away from crafting engaging curricula.

Even better, ask any student if they'd like to tackle issues or avoid them. They'll want to tackle. 

CommentID: 29623