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Teachers and parents tell advisory committee Alexie novel supports Grade 9 instruction
Summary
Multiple teachers and parents at the Feb. 5 advisory committee meeting described The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian as appropriate for Grade 9 instruction, citing student engagement, course alignment to English 9B and supportive classroom practice.
Several committee members told the Seaside SD 10 advisory committee Feb. 5 that the Sherman Alexie novel meets instructional objectives and generates student engagement. "Jane Crater feels the book is spot on for the age group," the transcript records; Crater, a teacher and parent, said using the novel can prompt larger participation and class discussion because of its readability.
High school language-arts teacher Susan Baertlein and parent-volunteer Alex Carney described classroom practice and student work samples as evidence the text advances learning goals. Carney said the book "met and exceeded the instructional objectives, the appropriate level of difficulty, and the age appropriateness" and cited student responses as impactful. Committee members noted the book's themes—loss, transitions, identity—help students see themselves in literature and support curriculum aims for English 9B.
Members also emphasized context and teacher preparation: they described pre-reading discussions and alternatives offered to students who opt out, and said student assignments provided to the committee showed alignment with district standards.
