Title and Board Action Requested
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Public Hearing and Final Approval of the Superintendent’s Recommendation not to remove the book, “The Poet X” written by Elizabeth Acevedo, in circulation and made available to students in Hernando County Schools.
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Executive Summary
The Supervisor of Literacy, Intervention and Elementary Academic Programs, on behalf of the Superintendent of Schools, hereby requests the Board not to remove the book, “The Poet X” written by Elizabeth Acevedo, but access to the book will continue to be limited to grades 9-12 for students in Hernando County Schools. This book is being challenged at Springstead High School.
Springstead High School’s Review Committee met on November 29, 2023 and December 13, 2023 to discuss a citizen’s request for school reconsideration of the book. The committee voted 6-1 to recommend to the Superintendent that the book stay in circulation for grades 9-12 in Hernando County Schools.
My Contact
Kelly Downey
Supervisor of Literacy, Intervention and Elementary Academic Programs
352-797-7000 ext. 280
downey_k@hcsb.k12.fl.us
2023-28 Strategic Focus Area
Other
Financial Impact
See attached budget sheet.
If expenditure is not currently budgeted, this will serve as the budget amendment when Board approved. If the agenda item includes the purchase of goods or services, the funds requested are an anticipated amount and may fluctuate depending on such factors as current market conditions, product availability, additional funding sources, and the needs of the District. Should the actual cost exceed the anticipated amount, the Board approves the additional cost, after review by the superintendent, but not in excess of the funds available in the site’s approved annual budget.