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Public speakers urge board to reverse book removals and defend mission; community members endorse interim board candidate
Summary
Several residents used the public comment period to oppose a recent removal of library books, allege an ad‑hoc process that cut out educators and said Minnesota law prohibits banning books for content; another speaker publicly endorsed a candidate for the open board seat.
Multiple community members addressed the Saint Francis Area Schools board during public comment June 23, criticizing the recent removal of library books and urging the board to follow district policy and professional recommendations. Speakers also offered a public endorsement for one applicant to fill a current board vacancy.
June Anderson, a community member who identified herself during public comment, criticized the district’s handling of a set of challenges to library titles. Anderson said the person who submitted the challenged list lacked educational credentials and a stake in the district and that the board bypassed the district review policy and state law by appointing an ad‑hoc committee that included the challenger.
Anderson characterized the process as an “illegal book ban” and asked why the board did not seek input from professional educators — the superintendent, librarians and teachers — before removing titles from library shelves. She asked whether the board would cover legal costs arising from the decision and called on members to consider the consequences of actions that restrict student access to classic American literature.
Other speakers emphasized mission and inclusion. Barb Anderson reminded the board that decisions should reflect the district’s mission statement and that political pressures should not drive policy. A third public speaker, Glenda (surname not given), used her time to endorse a particular applicant for the current school board vacancy, describing the nominee’s community involvement and volunteer service and urging the board to appoint someone who will support inclusivity and student success.
Board response and procedure
Board members thanked speakers for engaging and reiterated that public comment does not generate immediate board action; the superintendent and chair may respond when appropriate. Several board members later discussed the formal appointment process and scoring rubric for the interim board vacancy; the board proceeded with an appointment process during the meeting.
Ending
Speakers closed by urging the board to follow professional review processes, prioritize student access and ensure that governance decisions reflect the district’s mission and values.
