Unapproved Textbooks Piloted in Elmbrook Classrooms
Superintendent Mark Hansen said that “the team was following the process that we have used over a decade.”
In the discussion at the 3/21/23 Board meeting on new English Language Arts (ELA) curriculum, it was noted that the Elmbrook district administration directed teachers to pilot unapproved resources - meaning textbooks and workbooks - in classrooms.
When reviewing the textbooks, Board member Linda Boucher pointed out multiple concerning topics in a middle school textbook - including body shaming and stories encouraging gender questioning. Linda, the only board member with teaching experience, commented that the district administration would not let her take the textbooks home to review further and turned her away when she arrived late to view a pilot session. Board member Kathy Lim pointed out that a social justice author was included in the textbooks and asked how these were reviewed to address sensitive topics.
A community member spoke and referenced state statute requiring curriculum (which includes resources) needing board approval and that there is no exception listed for piloting programs.
Superintendent Mark Hansen interjected (4:18:44) that “the team was following the process that we have used over a decade.”
Board member Linda Boucher added (4:20:14) “…to use our children in an educational setting for experimental trials, for results, prior to reviewing a program or curriculum could be considered irresponsible, not vigilant, regarding their best interest in mental, emotional and academic outcomes. That’s why there is a state statute that addresses this.”
We encourage all community members to listen to the presentation and eye-opening discussion (starting 2:20:23).
