Am I missing something? Why threaten teachers or school librarians in Ohio House Bill 556? School administrators should be on the hook if so-called “banned” books are available to students, and the list must be loud and clear. Any books taught or referenced outside curriculum need to be approved by administration, no exceptions. Put the burden where it belongs.
Teachers are by and large contractors and paid to teach in their field, period. Owning a teaching certificate for public school, all grades, in no way qualifies that person to discuss sexuality with students. Religion and politics should not be discussed either, except historically in the abstract. Students should never know a teacher’s personal beliefs. If a teacher suspects there is a personal problem with a student, take the issue to an administrator.
I am not in favor of banning classics in schools, but several years ago, I taught "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" because it was required. There was only one Black student in the class, and I can tell you I was embarrassed for her. A racial slur is in that book 219 times, according to Google. That book is patently unnecessary to be taught in school.
Also, "banned books" is a misnomer, in my mind. The books are still available elsewhere, just not “sanctioned” in schools.
If you will, an analogy between public libraries and bars: A library and a bar have products appropriate and inappropriate for minors, according to our state laws, or soon-to-be laws. An age-designated library card like a driver’s license would be the determinate. Parents can check out a book and give it to their kid if they wish.
Can you imagine creating a curriculum that shuns all books that might be a trigger for someone? Impossible.
Pat Sullivan, Jackson Township
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