RECONSIDERATION OF INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS

The suitability of particular books or other materials may be questioned by an

individual or group. The local Board of Education (BOE) recognizes that there
may be differences in opinions, personal values and/or prejudices. Provisions
have been made for citizens to file formal complaint requesting, reconsideration
of the questioned material. This policy pertains to all instructional materials in all
areas of the school. Public complaints about curriculum or instructional materials
consist of a form, which is called Request for Consideration of Instructional
Resources.

School library media specialists need to remember that not all concerns will
result in formal action. School library media specialists should use their
professional discretion when handling informal concerns. If there is a question
about how to handle a concern contact the Supervisor of Instructional
Technology and Library Media Services.

Responding to a Reconsideration Request

When a request for reconsideration comes about, it is imperative that the

WCBOE policy KEC/KEC-E be followed. This policy states that no material will
be removed from a school library media collection without the proper procedures
being followed.

Listen calmly and objectively to the concern voiced by the complainant.

Inform the complainant that there are policies, procedures, and criteria for
the selection, evaluation, and reconsideration of school library media
resources.
Advise the Supervisor of Library Media Services of the resource in
question and the nature of the complaint.
If the complainant wishes to further pursue the concern, confer with the
principal. Discuss the purpose and use of the resource, professional
reviews, and the selection criteria/procedures. According to the policy
items will not be removed from the collection until the Materials
Reconsideration Committee makes its decision.
Have the principal request the complainant complete the proper
reconsideration form. The complainant is responsible for sending the
completed form to the principal.