By Phoebe Fries, page editor.
On Oct. 11, Midland Public Schools English division met with administrators in order to discuss a proposed novel for freshman English classes. The novel “The Absolute True Diary of a Part-Time Indian,” written by Sherman Alexie, was called into question by faculty members of Midland High. The meeting resulted in an agreement to teach the book, with the stipulation of a signed permission slip needed by each student.
According to Becky King, English teacher at Midland High, the book was approved by the school in July. She states that the restrictions were added months after the original approval.
“We’ve never had an issue like this where the school board approved something, then an administrator found fault in it, and the board backtracked on their original decision. It’s unprecedented,” says King.
The book caused concern due to the sensitive material disclosed within the text. According to Bannedbooksweek.org, the majority of concerns with the novel is profanity and references to sexuality.
“Some of the questionable themes that are in the book are very real, teachable moments. If we don’t talk about such things, just like we do with “To Kill a Mockingbird” or “Huckleberry Finn,” then the kids are not getting the adult guidance that a classroom setting affords them,” says King.
Amy Hutchinson, Principle of Midland High, was quoted by the student run newspaper at the school stating that 99 percent of the schools students and parents would be fine with the book.
King responded to Hutchinson’s comment by saying, “What frustrates me most as a teacher, is that we are ready and willing to accommodate to parents who object to various things. This situation is weird because the concern wasn’t brought up by a parent, but rather an administrator before the book was taught in a classroom setting.”
“By having the permission slip ahead of time, which is something we’ve never done for any other book in our whole curriculum. I think it sends a red flag that there is something horrible and awful about this book, that’s the really troubling spot,” says King.
King continues to talk about real life situations that can occur in students’ lives and how important a novel, such as this one, is as an educational tool and learning experience.
“I think that when a school district takes on a piece of literature, it gives validity to what we are teaching. I know that one of the biggest concerns was the fact that the book was to be read in the ninth grade classroom. In my opinion, when you are trying to engage reluctant readers you need material that will gain their attention,” says King.
Michael Sharrow, Superintendent of Midland Public Schools, states through an email, “There was no book issue. Standard BOE review.”
Sharrow had no other comments.