School board to review draft policy for controversial library books
LEHIGHTON, Pa. - A school board in Carbon County gave a brief update Monday night on the status of requiring parental permission for students to access certain library books.
At its last board meeting on Sept. 9, the Lehighton Area School District Board of Directors discussed a book audit on 33 books that had raised concerns for being "extremely graphic."
Some of the book topics brought up pertained to subjects such as human trafficking and sexuality.
The school board revealed Monday night that the solicitors provided the board with a draft policy regarding the library books, but that it was received too late to make the agenda for the meeting.
"In the seriousness of this issue, it was determined that it was received too late to make the agenda for tonight's meeting," said Jeremy Glaush, board president.
Sean Gleaves, the school board treasurer who proposed the idea of putting together a committee to conduct a book audit, was not present for the meeting Monday night.
"I don't know what Sean was planning on talking about tonight, so I can't really speak to any of this," Glaush said.
While Gleaves was not present for the Monday night meeting, he was still the topic of many comments from the public.
Many public commenters said were concerned about the potential negative impact that banning books could have for the LGBTQ+ community.
"It seems evident that Mr. Gleaves views the LGBTQ+ community as a problem, rather than recognizing their rights and their humanity," said public commenter Stephanie.
Another individual claimed to have exchanged emails with Gleaves, saying he was open to the idea of potential alternatives and a town hall discussion.
Stephanie went on to raise concerns about the lack of impartiality that could come with the auditing.
"How can we trust that all students' needs will be fairly represented?" she asked.
Other comments from the public pointed out the heightened suicide rate among LGBTQ+ teens and how that may be increased from a lack of education material.
The board confirmed that the draft policy will be reviewed and will appear on the agenda for the October workshop meeting.
Officials said that will include some back-and-forth questions and possible changes made with the guidance of the solicitor.
