An emotional crowd filled the Windsor Unified School Board meeting Wednesday night, calling on trustees to reverse their decision to block a popular novel from the high school curriculum.
The Press Democrat reports more than a dozen students, parents, and teachers spoke in support of English teacher Julie Forrest, who requested to teach Neal Shusterman’s dystopian novel, Scythe. Last month, the board rejected the book in a 3-to-2 vote, citing concerns over its violent content. Supporters, however, called the move “censorship” and expressed deep trust in Forrest’s professional judgment.
Board President Rich Carnation denied that the book was banned, noting it remains in the school library. He stated the board’s primary concern was whether the book should be a required reading given its potential “triggers” for students.
The board is now open to a formal reconsideration, potentially as early as February 19th. Trustees indicated that approval may hinge on the district providing an alternative book for students who are uncomfortable with the novel’s themes.
