Library Book Causes Controversy in Sartell High School
SARTELL (WJON News) -- A library book found on the shelves inside Sartell-St. Stephen High School has drawn some controversy.
The book titled 'Him' was brought to the school board's attention during Monday's meeting, after community members raised concerns about the graphic pornography details described within its pages.
I hope these examples serve as a wake up call to many other parents and community members in this district. Let me be the first to ask you again, who, how, when and why.
The high school does not have a traditional library space but instead, a collection of books spread out across the building that students can check out.
During the meeting, Superintendent Jeff Ridlehoover told the board the book is not part of any classroom reading.
From what I understand we had one copy of this book with our collection. It has never been checked out and is currently not in circulation.
In a statement to WJON News Thursday, Riddlehoover explains more details:
The recent questioning of a book at the high school has been a helpful learning opportunity for staff, families, and school board members.
The first full week after Winter Break (the week of January 9), a concern was raised about the title being on a bookshelf at the high school. It was immediately removed from the bookshelf to be reviewed (about a week and a half before the school board meeting).
The book was never part of any curriculum. The book was never checked out by a student during the short time it was on a bookshelf.
We will continue to utilize our procedures in the future to make sure we have resources that are representative of our students, staff, and families.
We look forward to respectful conversations as we move forward.
The board plans to have at a work session on Wednesday to better address the question raised by parents as to how this book ended up in the school.