Gilbert School Board Struggles to Allow Parents a Voice in Choosing Reading Materials

On March 26, 2013, Gilbert School Board Clerk Mrs. Julie Smith, requested a discussion and approval of Item 6.02 relating to a Community Curriculum Committee.   Eventually, the motion was made to approve formation of a Community Textbook and Supplemental Materials Committee.  Mrs. Smith’s major concern was that, in light of materials used in Springboard and Common Core,  parental and teacher input be allowed prior to adoption of certain reading materials.   The discussion begins at 1:13:00.  The essence of opinions begins at 1:34:00.   Board Members Lily Tram and Jill Humphreys are in agreement that selection of textbooks and supplemental reading materials should be left in the hands of "the professionals."  "There are many different values in Gilbert," stated Mrs. Humpherys.  "One person’s trash is another person’s treasure."  Mrs. Tram wanted to know, "Who is going to run this committee"?   Board President Staci Burk suggested that Mrs. Smith would facilitate it.   The Board approved the Committee 3-2.