The Griffith School Board approved the 2025–26 remedial English book synopsis (agenda item 4.4) after a period of discussion about whether the selections were sufficiently rigorous for eighth graders. One board member argued the selections were "very modern" and "pandering," saying, "I kinda think it's pandering. And, I think some of it is quite gratuitous," and urged higher standards. Staff and other board members responded that the chosen titles were meant to engage students who need remediation and to increase participation in class. A teacher or staff member noted the list was selected to reach students who "don't want to be in class" and that materials reflecting students' lives could help keep them engaged. The transcript shows the board debated the tradeoff between rigor and engagement before voting; the board recorded "All in favor? Aye. Opposed? Aye. Motion carries," indicating approval despite some dissent. The discussion also included clarification that the remedial class is distinct from general English and is intended for students needing targeted support, not the general-literature curriculum.