Title and Board Action Requested
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Public Hearing and Final Approval of the Superintendent’s Recommendation to keep the book, “Speak: The Graphic Novel” written by Laurie Halse Anderson, in circulation and be 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 to give approval to keep the book, “Speak: The Graphic Novel” written by Laurie Halse Anderson, in circulation in high schools. This book is being challenged at Springstead High School and Hernando High School.
“Speak: The Graphic Novel” was originally challenged at Springstead High School and the results of that committee also determine the challenge for Hernando High School.
Springstead High School’s Review Committee met on November 1, 2023 and November 13, 2023 to discuss a citizen’s request for school reconsideration of the book. The committee voted 5-2 to recommend to the Superintendent that the book stay in circulation for high schools 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.