Nassau County School Board adopts Administrative Rule 8.33 after extended public comment on book challenges

The Nassau County School Board on Aug. 14 adopted Administrative Rule 8.33, the district's procedures for handling objections to specific library and media materials, after a public hearing that drew multiple speakers both for and against restrictions.

The vote followed more than an hour of public comment. "Last night's federal court ruling was clear. Florida book ban law went too far," said Gail Kirsten of Fernandina Beach during public comment, urging the board to "follow the constitution and trust our educators." Mike Kirsten, also of Fernandina Beach, cited the same federal decision and warned that removing materials for political reasons risks violating First Amendment rights.

Supporters of the board's local review process said the district already provides parental control options and a local challenge procedure. "We already have parental choice," a parent said during the hearing, noting the district's opt‑out forms and a two‑step review process that includes local review by trained educators and elected officials.

District counsel briefed the board on the legal context. Counsel said the federal decision in a lawsuit involving Penguin Random House and others is persuasive authority in Florida but is not binding on the district; it may be appealed and the Eleventh Circuit could consider it. Counsel recommended the district keep a constitutionally sound process in place while monitoring appellate developments.

Superintendent Kathy Burns and staff described the policy as the product of extensive work by review committees and district staff. Board members acknowledged the hours staff and community volunteers put into reading challenged materials and refining the rule.

After discussion, the board moved, seconded and approved the administrative rule. The motion on the record read: "Recommend approval of Administrative Rule 8.33, specific material objections." The public hearing was then closed.

The board and staff said they will continue to monitor legal developments and implement the process established by the rule.