Parent and union clash over curriculum materials at Edison board meeting

A parent at Monday’s Edison Township Board of Education meeting urged the board to review classroom and library materials, alleging that some teachers have promoted political views and that explicit LGBTQ‑themed books and pride activities are being presented to younger students.

The parent, who identified himself as Dave, said he found materials he considered age‑inappropriate in classrooms and reported examples he brought to the meeting. He described instances in which a sixth‑grade assignment had an LGBTQ topic and said his child was embarrassed. He asked the board to ensure parental control, transparency and full review of materials placed in school libraries and classrooms.

Superintendent Dr. Aldorelli acknowledged the concerns and said administration would review the materials Dave provided and follow up. The parent left printed materials and the board asked for his contact information so staff could communicate about the review.

Matt Revnak, president of the ETA (teachers and support staff association), responded during public comment that the union does not direct or promote political views in classrooms. Revnak said curriculum decisions and book approvals are administrative and board responsibilities and asked the public to avoid blanket accusations about teachers. He also thanked student presenters and praised staff work throughout the district.

Board members did not take immediate action at the meeting beyond directing administration to review the materials; the superintendent said he would follow up after staff review. The board did not vote on any curriculum policy changes during the session.

The meeting record shows the board routinely handles curriculum, book selection and library access through established administrative processes; commenters raised questions about specific titles the parent referenced but did not identify a formal policy change request at this meeting.