Board approves new ELA materials after lengthy debate over content, online access and cost

The board considered a recommendation to adopt a new English language arts program (print and digital materials) after teachers piloted options and presented alignment to Ohio learning standards.

Several public commenters and one board member read or cited emotionally resonant literary excerpts and raised objections, especially to some digital excerpts and online assignment workflows. Margaret Bream, who identified herself as a Moms for Liberty chapter chair and congressional candidate, asked a pointed question: "What curriculum is too sensitive for taxpayers to see but not too sensitive for children to see?" (public comment).

Staff and teacher advocates said the recommended program was selected after a multi-month review by district educators and emphasized that the package includes printed textbooks (the feature many faculty preferred) plus online tools used for assessments and differentiated Lexile-level access. Staff stressed that any online resource must comply with Ohio data-privacy requirements (Senate Bill 29) and that teachers would assign specific excerpts through Google Classroom rather than providing unconstrained library-like access.

Board discussion focused on three main areas: content suitability, the district’s ability to offer opt-outs and alternatives for families with objections, and the package price and ongoing online hosting costs. One board member requested clarity on whether the purchase included unlimited online access or only the publisher’s online teacher/assignment tools; administrators clarified that the district intends to control assignments through Google Classroom and that the online mode primarily provides assessment, differentiated text levels and teacher tools.

Public commenters requested full public release of teacher prompts and online performance tasks tied to sensitive selections; staff said print copies are available in the central office for public review and that opt-out procedures exist for families who object to specific assignments. After extended debate, the board moved and recorded a roll-call vote to approve the recommended ELA materials; the board directed staff to return with clear parent-facing opt-out procedures and a summary of online-data safeguards.

The board also asked staff for a cost breakdown by building, a seven‑year replacement schedule included in the purchase proposal, and confirmation of annual online‑access renewal fees prior to execution of any contract.