COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho— The Coeur d’Alene School District is at the center of Idaho’s ongoing debate over book bans as it reviews 150 titles flagged by parents for containing potentially harmful material.
Katie Graupman, the district’s curriculum coordinator, said officials are carefully evaluating the books in accordance with Idaho’s new “Harmful to Minors” law, which went into effect in July.
“We needed to immediately remove those books from the shelf, and we’re undergoing a review of those titles as we speak,” Graupman said.
The law gives school districts 60 days to assess the books and determine whether they should be removed or placed in a restricted section. Districts that fail to comply face financial and legal consequences.
Graupman emphasized that the process requires careful deliberation by a board of community members.
“It can be allowed if it contains serious artistic, literary, political or scientific value. So, part of our job is to weigh whatever is considered harmful against that criteria as well.”
The district’s approach has drawn mixed reactions. Many opponents of the law have expressed concerns that it unfairly targets the LGBTQ+ community.
“Some people feel that we’re not doing enough, some people feel that we’re going too far,” Graupman said.
The controversy mirrors a growing national debate.
On Tuesday, the country’s five largest publishers joined authors, teachers, and other advocates in filing a lawsuit against similar legislation, arguing that definitions of “harmful” or “sexual” content are too broad.
The story of banned books is still being written, but as for now, Graupman said the district remains committed to following the law while prioritizing students’ educational needs.
“We all want what’s best for kids. We all want to ensure that they have access to worthy reading materials to allow them to learn and grow.”
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