Parents and community clash over assigned novel in Seaside High School

Parents and community members used public comment time to press Seaside School District 10 leaders to review an assigned high‑school novel, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part‑Time Indian by Sherman Alexie, saying portions of the text are not age‑appropriate and that parents should be notified in advance.

"Why choose a book that has been controversial and banned in many states?" asked Amanda Rush, one of several parents who requested more transparency and earlier notice when potentially sensitive material is assigned. Multiple speakers described cases where students felt uncomfortable and said they were not given advance information to decide whether to opt out. The superintendent and administrators told the board that alternatives are available and that the district policy provides a process for challenges to materials.

Supporters of keeping the book in the curriculum urged caution about sweeping removals. Faith Behring, who said she had read the book in full, told the board: "I hope that the board does not remove this book from the curriculum." Several speakers said the most effective safeguard is parental engagement combined with opt‑out alternatives rather than district‑level bans.

Board members and the superintendent said they heard the comments and reiterated the district's formal process for handling complaints under board policy K L. The board did not take immediate formal action at the meeting; trustees directed staff to follow established complaint and review procedures and to report back as needed.