Review Committee
The Review Committee is a board appointed committee that includes educators, administrators, parents and board of education members who handle complaints concerning textbooks, media center or instructional materials use in Derby Public Schools is challenged. See board policy IF HERE.
When a book is challenged, the Review Committee members read the book and book reviews for the text in question. The committee then meets to discuss the concerns reported in the challenge, any teacher's comments on deciding to use the book, the merits of the book, and challenged content.
At the conclusion of the book review a final recommendation is noted by committee members. The person that initiated the book challenge and the educator (or librarian) using the book receive a copy of the committee review notes.
The book review process is covered in Derby Public Schools policy IF. The American Library Association offers additional information regarding book challenges on their website as well as book reviews and frequently challenged book information.
When a book is challenged, the Review Committee members read the book and book reviews for the text in question. The committee then meets to discuss the concerns reported in the challenge, any teacher's comments on deciding to use the book, the merits of the book, and challenged content.
At the conclusion of the book review a final recommendation is noted by committee members. The person that initiated the book challenge and the educator (or librarian) using the book receive a copy of the committee review notes.
The book review process is covered in Derby Public Schools policy IF. The American Library Association offers additional information regarding book challenges on their website as well as book reviews and frequently challenged book information.
Administrators: Sandy Rusher, Stone Creek Elementary; Clint Shipley, Derby Middle School; Jeff Smith, Derby North Middle School
Media Specialist: AnnElise Irick
Derby High School ELA Teacher: Ed Belsan
Alternative Learning Staff: Luan Sparks
School Social Worker: Sara Zerener
Community Members: Janie Elder, Kristin Sen
Board Members: Pamela Doyle, Robyn Pearman, Andy Watkins
Request for Review Form. Forms will need to be submitted to Superintendent (Heather Bohaty) and Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction (Dr. Holly Putnam-Jackson)
The committee notes are shared with the teacher as feedback and included below.
"We are Not From Here" by Jenny Torres Sanchez
"The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie
"English Standard Bible"