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Board rejects AP Human Geography text after trustees cite bias; approves two other new high‑school texts
Summary
Trustees voted down a proposed AP Human Geography textbook after extended debate about perceived bias and suitability for students; the board approved Krugman's AP economics and a new Forensic Science textbook.
Caledonia Community Schools trustees debated adoption of three high‑school textbooks at the May 19 meeting and voted separately after an amendment to remove the AP Human Geography text for individual consideration.
Trustee (recorded as speaker 14) said she spent several hours reviewing the Human Geography text and identified multiple passages she characterized as opinionated or one‑sided, citing a page that described Israel’s security barrier as "a reminder of Israel's occupation" and other passages she said lacked balance on border/barrier issues; she said the material did not align with district policy on impartiality and community standards and said she would vote no. Several trustees and the superintendent countered that AP curricula often address complex, contested topics and that teachers would facilitate balanced discussion; supporters argued the text meets AP College Board standards and would help students prepare for exams.
Following discussion, the board approved the Krugman's AP economics text and the Forensic Science text and voted down the AP Human Geography adoption on roll call. Trustees discussed options if the human geography text remains unapproved, including returning to publishers to identify alternate materials and timelines to reinitiate adoption.
