Reconsideration of Instructional Materials
The local Board of Education (BOE) recognizes that there may be differences in opinions, personal values and/or prejudices which may result in questioning of the value of particular books or other materials by an individual or group. As a result, provisions have been made for citizens to file a formal complaint requesting reconsideration of the questioned material. This policy pertains to all instructional materials, print and non-print, in all areas of the school.
School Library Media Specialists need to remember that not all concerns will result in formal action. School Library Media Specialists should use their professional discretion when handling informal concerns. If there is a question about how to handle a concern, contact the Supervisor of Instructional Technology and Library Media Services.
Responding to a Reconsideration Request
When a request for reconsideration comes about, it is imperative that the BOE policy be followed. The policy states that no material will be removed from a school library media collection without the proper procedures being followed.
School Library Media Specialists need to remember that not all concerns will result in formal action. School Library Media Specialists should use their professional discretion when handling informal concerns. If there is a question about how to handle a concern, contact the Supervisor of Instructional Technology and Library Media Services.
Responding to a Reconsideration Request
When a request for reconsideration comes about, it is imperative that the BOE policy be followed. The policy states that no material will be removed from a school library media collection without the proper procedures being followed.
- Listen calmly and objectively to the concern voiced by the complainant.
- Inform the complainant that there are policies, procedures, and criteria for the selection, evaluation, and reconsideration of school library media resources.
- Advise the Supervisor of Library Media Services of the resource in question and the nature of the complaint.
- If the complainant wishes to further pursue the concern, confer with the principal.
- Discuss the purpose and use of the resource, professional reviews, and the selection criteria/procedures. It is recommended that the item not be removed from the collection until the Materials Reconsideration Committee makes its decision.
- Have the principal request the complainant complete the proper reconsideration form within 10 days. The complainant is responsible for sending the completed form to the principal.
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These reconsideration criteria were adapted from criteria developed by Washington County Public Schools.
Updated December 4, 2014 by Jennifer Lungociu, webmistress and media specialist.
Contact me at: [email protected]
Contact me at: [email protected]
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