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Parents and citizens press district over book 'Tricks'; board to seek legal counsel
Summary
Citizens raised objections to the book Tricks during public comment, and the board said it will review one complaint at the next meeting and seek legal advice on how to proceed.
Members of the public urged the Three Rivers/Josephine County School District board to remove the book Tricks from school libraries and said the work contains sexually explicit material they deem inappropriate for students.
The complaint prompted board members to say they will review one complaint at the next board meeting and consult legal counsel to determine options for handling library challenges and related policy procedures.
Why it matters: Citizens told the board that concerns about library materials and classroom content are driving some families away from the district and hurting trust between schools and the community. The board’s decision to get legal advice signals it will follow a formal process rather than act immediately to remove materials.
During the board’s “board complaint” agenda item, a board member said the district will circulate copies of the book and review complaint procedures before making any decision. Board member Pat (last name not specified in the transcript) told the board, “In order to protect the board, in the district, I think it's a necessary precaution. We have to invite legal counsel to advise us what our options are.”
Several public commenters urged quicker action. Rick Nelson said he had cataloged “109 quotes of really racy stuff” and described the book as “disgusting” and “not age appropriate.” He called on the board to “stand up to the lawyers and do the right thing.” Judy Ahrens also told the board she found excerpts disturbing and supported earlier comments.
The board did not take a final vote to remove materials at the meeting. Instead, board members said they would study one complaint first to learn how the process works, then develop a procedure for handling additional complaints. The district will make copies of the book available in limited supply to board members for review.
The board did not announce a timetable for returning a recommendation to the public. The board chair and staff said they will consult with legal counsel before bringing any formal recommendation back to the board for action.
