Parents press Tintic board over book assignment and halftime-show content shown to students

Several parents used the board’s public-comment period on Feb. 23 to press Tintic School District leaders about classroom and media content shown to high school students. Parent Kayla Atherley told the board she was concerned about “inappropriate content in the super bowl halftime show being shown to high school students,” the assignment of the novel The Hate You Give to 9th graders, and a November junior-class play.

Student Corbin Atherley distributed copies of song lyrics to board members to illustrate his and his parent’s concerns. Parent Natalie Norman also objected to the 9th-grade reading assignment, saying she had discussed the matter with the principal and believes parents should decide when their children are exposed to adult content.

Superintendent Greg Thornock acknowledged the comments and said district staff are addressing the complaints. He told the board that “investigations and disciplinary actions are taking place.” The board did not take formal action at the meeting; Thornock indicated the district will follow health- and legal-guidance as needed and that school administrators have been engaged in follow-up conversations with concerned families.

The public comments came during the regular meeting after reports from district principals. Board President Jeana Rowley thanked those who spoke and the board scheduled routine follow-up items and discussion topics for future work sessions.