Request for Reconsideration of Materials
Dear Parents/Guardians/Concerned Citizens:
Each book in your child’s library is hand selected by a highly qualified Librarian with specific training in material selection. Your librarian has read many of the books in the library, but they can not possibly read every single one that enters the collection. To ensure the materials are of the highest quality and age-appropriate for a school setting, your Librarian may rely on verified book reviews from trusted sources (such as School Library Journal, Kirkus Reviews, Scholastic, etc) for books they have not personally read. While we strive to provide the absolute best materials for your child, occasionally we will select something that you may find offense due to religious, moral, or other reasons. You have the right to request that a book be reviewed by a committee and possibly removed from the shelves.
If you find yourself in this situation and would like to challenge the validity of a book, there is a process that must be followed to ensure that undue censorship is not taking place. Please review the official process and complete the necessary form. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your school librarian, principal or school board member. Remember, even if our opinions or beliefs differ, we are all on the same side and only want the best for each student.
Thank you,
Mika Chetto
Green Lake School District Library Specialist
Judging Criticisms & Censorship
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Citizens of the community may register their criticism of library materials with the school authorities or with the Board of Education.
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The criticism presented to the Board of Education must be in writing.
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The statement must include specific information as to the author, title, publisher and page number of each item to which objection is being made.
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The statement must be signed and identification given to permit a reply to be made after the criticism has been investigated.
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The Board of Education, through the Superintendent, will appoint a committee of school and community personnel to re-evaluate the materials being questions and make recommendations concerning them.
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Committee appointments will be subject to the approval of the District Administrator. Recommendation will be submitted by the Library Media Specialist. The committee shall consist of:
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1 Clergy for 2 years (rotating among area clergy)
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2 High school students for 1 year.
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2 parents for 2 years
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Principal and librarian- permanent appointment
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Subject area teacher
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The committee may call in representative citizens from the community for consultation when desired.
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The findings and recommendation of the committee will be submitted to the superintendent for presentation and recommendation to the Board of Education.