Forest Hills School Board addresses explicit content in classrooms and libraries

The Forest Hills School District School Board convened on May 21, 2025, to address several pressing issues concerning educational content and compliance with state laws. The meeting began with a focus on the appropriateness of materials available in classrooms and school libraries, particularly concerning explicit and lewd content.

The first topic of discussion centered on allegations that certain books, including "The Perks of Being a Wallflower," contained material deemed offensive and obscene under Ohio law, specifically ORC 2907.01. Concerns were raised about the potential harm these materials could pose to juveniles, as they reportedly appeal to prurient interests and lack serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value.

Further legal references were made to Ohio law 3313.601, which prescribes the curriculum for sex education, emphasizing that it should focus on topics such as sexually transmitted infections, abuse, and dating violence. The law mandates that schools promote abstinence as the only 100% effective method against unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.

A board member highlighted the responsibility of the board, as outlined by the Ohio School Boards Association (OSBA), to enforce policies that align with state laws. The member urged the board to take action against any future breaches of these regulations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining appropriate educational standards.

The meeting concluded with a call for adherence to legal guidelines and a commitment to ensuring that the educational environment remains safe and appropriate for all students. The board's next steps will likely involve reviewing current library and classroom materials to ensure compliance with state laws and community standards.