ABILINE, Texas — The second week of October is annual ‘Book Ban Week’ according to the American Library Association, and school districts across the Big Country have become a focal point for local debate.
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After Texas Senate Bill 13 was passed in early September, parents and district leaders were granted more authority to decide what reading materials are appropriate for students.
According to Abilene Independent School District Board Member, Blair Schroeder, the law establishes a formal process for districts to work with parents and community members to review books and determine what’s appropriate for students.
“I would argue that Senate Bill 13 is by no means a broad ban,” said Schroeder. “I think it’s important that as a community, we have a good faith dialog, and the best way to do that is to go through the appropriate channels.”
Under the new protocol, parents and community members are encouraged to participate, by challenging books in the curriculum through the appropriate library directory.
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Still, the new policy has sparked debate, with some in the community expressing concern that it could lead to censorship.
District leaders, however, stress that the intent is not to limit ideas but to ensure materials are age and grade appropriate.
According to Schroeder, the goal is to keep decision-making at the local level while maintaining community standards, but this is only possible if people are willing collaborators.
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“We’re trying to create an opportunity to educate our kids,” Schroeder said. “It doesn’t need to be my side is bad, your side is good, or vice versa.”