Ohio HB 556 wrongly shifts responsibility for “banned” books

July 3, 2024

Did I miss something? Why would teachers or school librarians be threatened in Ohio House Bill 556? School administrators should be held accountable when so-called “forbidden” books are available to students, and the list must be clear and obvious. Any books taught or mentioned outside of the curriculum must be approved by the administration, with no exceptions. Shift the burden where it belongs.

Teachers are, by and large, contract workers and are paid to teach in their field of expertise, period. A teaching certificate for public schools of any grade does not in any way qualify a person to talk to students about sexuality. Religion and politics should also not be discussed except historically and abstractly. Students should never know a teacher’s personal beliefs. If a teacher suspects a student has a personal problem, they should escalate the issue to an administrator.

I’m not in favor of banning classics in schools, but a few 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. According to Google, there are 219 racial slurs in this book. It’s obviously unnecessary to teach this book in school.

Also, I think “banned books” is a misnomer. The books are still available elsewhere, they’re just not “approved” in schools.

Here’s an analogy between public libraries and bars: A library and a bar have products that are and are not appropriate for minors according to our state’s laws or future laws. An age-based library card, like a driver’s license, would be the deciding factor. Parents can borrow a book and give it to their child if they want it.

Can you imagine creating a curriculum that avoids all books that might trigger someone? Impossible.

Pat Sullivan, Jackson Township

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