[aisle] challenge to book and book talk

[Dawn Scuderi]

Hi Everyone,

So it is 11:00 at night and I can't sleep because over the last week I have
2 emails from angry parents about a very brief book talk I gave of "A High
Five for Glenn Burke".
I am currently making my way through the Caudills and always tell the kids
about current books that I am reading or have just finished.

I mentioned the book, gave a very brief synopsis and had almost immediate
backlash from one parent who emailed me and my administrator.  They clearly
shared their opinion that I had "violated" students by book talking a book
that had a questioning character and a gay baseball player.

Today I received an email from a second parent threatening to take issue
with my Superintendent and School Board if I ever discuss, promote or
display books of a racial, political or LGBTQ nature again.  To ANY student.

I am in a 7/8 building.

We have a mission statement, collection development policy and challenge
policy but they are not school board approved.

These challenges seem to not just be about the books but about me
personally.  This evening I found out that the second parent posted about
me on Facebook.

We have a board meeting on Wednesday.  Do I go?  Do you guys think this
warrants a meeting with my union rep, a call to ALA?  So far my admin has
been supportive, but this is just *so much*.

Book challenges are one thing, I feel like I can combat that.  But this
feels personal.

Suggestions?

Thanks for any help,
Dawn
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