To the Editor:

We are writing to express our concern regarding recent attempts to censor certain books in Newtown's school libraries. The Special Committee tasked with reviewing Flamer and Blankets has determined that they are not only age-appropriate for high school students but also portray marginalized populations with literary merit. The State of Connecticut includes Flamer in its suggested summer reading list. Multiple publications and state award lists also recommend these books for middle and high school students. Despite this overwhelming support, there have been attempts to rate or move them to a "Special Collection" area, infringing on the rights of parents who support intellectual freedom and want their children to have open access to books.

Every parent has the right to determine what books are appropriate for their family, but they do not have the right to deny this for all children. These books do not meet the court-defined definitions of pornography or obscenity, and labeling them as such is inaccurate. These books tell coming-of-age stories for boys who are unsure about their sexuality and face strife in the process, stories not often told, especially from a male perspective. Both books share perspectives in ways that demonstrate artistic and literary merit, and are found in many of the school libraries in surrounding districts.

The Newtown Library Media Specialists are continuously evaluating the merit of books both adding to and removing books from the collection, a process called weeding, guided by criteria set by the American Library Association. Our selection of materials supports BOE policy 8-601, Promotion of Equity of Students in the Newtown School District, #3, the teaching and use of materials that promote the learning about and appreciation of people's similarities and differences. Banning books from the library would undermine the strength and quality of Newtown Public Schools' commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning among students.

The Connecticut Association of Boards of Education's Code of Ethics states that board members "will recognize that my responsibility is not to 'run the schools' through administration . . ." We urge all residents of Newtown to make their opinions known either by writing a letter or email to the Board of Education or attending their meetings and urging them to follow the recommendations of the Special Committee and Superintendent Melillo. For those parents who are concerned about protecting the right to read, we need to hear your voices now louder and stronger than ever.

Censorship does not have a place in Newtown's school libraries. We support our colleagues at Newtown High School and the decision of the Special Committee to retain Flamer and Blankets. We support the right of all students to read, learn, and grow from diverse perspectives, regardless of personal beliefs or opinions. Let us work together to foster a love of learning and a commitment to intellectual curiosity among all students.

Respectfully yours,

Suzanne Hurley, Middle Gate LMS

Erika Carlson, Hawley LMS

Katie Mauro, Sandy Hook, LMS

Beth Murphy, Head O’Meadow, LMS

Sara Wasley, Reed LMS

Andrew San Angelo, Newtown Middle School, LMS