– Deciding which books are suitable for a school library in Oklahoma

Last Updated on February 22, 2024 by Robert C. Hoopes

In a controversial move, the Department of Education in Oklahoma has called for Edmond Public Schools to remove two books, “The Glass Castle” and “The Kite Runner,” from their library shelves. The reason cited is that both books contain scenes of sexual abuse and rape, which Superintendent Ryan Walters deems as pornographic and inappropriate for students.

However, the decision has sparked a heated debate, with local psychologist Dr. Amber Nipper arguing that discussing sensitive topics like sexual abuse is crucial for young people. Dr. Nipper believes that these books can provide a sense of connection and understanding for those who have experienced similar traumas, helping them feel less alone in their struggles.

The issue has now escalated to the State Supreme Court, which will ultimately decide who has the authority to determine the content of school libraries. While the matter was not addressed at Thursday’s Board of Education meeting, it has been added to the docket for a future session.

The clash between Superintendent Walters and Dr. Nipper highlights the ongoing tension between protecting students from potentially harmful material and providing them with valuable educational resources. As the debate continues, the fate of these controversial books in Edmond Public Schools remains uncertain. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story on My MBA Career.