First-Grade Reading?

Recently (check google for some of these), there have been several occasions where parents have protested the reading materials available in schools for primary grade students. At one meeting of a school board or city council (can't remember which), a woman stood up to protest the reading material that had been made available for children in the first grade. She began to read some of the passages in the book, which will not be repeated here, but they involved the use of vulgar street language with concepts that most young people do not even hear about until they are in high school.

So, what was the reaction of the council members? They were upset. No, they did not say, “What kind of a librarian would make such atrocious and obviously inappropriate material available to children? We will immediately review our selection policy and remove these obscene and offensive materials. And if anyone will not cooperate in this matter, she will cease to be employed here.” No; they did not take that approach. Such a response would have been refreshing, but the council seemed impervious to the immorality expressed in the book. They were upset with the woman for reading the offensive words. They asked her not to read those words in order that the meeting might maintain a measure of decorum and dignity.

Okay. Do we have this right? It's inappropriate for adults to use gutter language in each other's presence, but it's all right for students in the first grade to read about sexual acts described in vile language? And what if a student raises his hand to ask the meaning of words with which he is unfamiliar? These sentences are a far cry from, “See Spot run.” How do adults not see the inconsistency of their actions? It's inappropriate to bring up first-grade reading material in an adult assembly? Someone should tell the council, “If it's inappropriate for adults, why is it acceptable for children?” And why are they disgruntled with those who shone the spotlight on the problem instead of those who created the problem?

Of course, this entire scenario is nothing new. Back in the '80s, your congenial editor ran for the library board when it was learned that explicit sexual matter was being made available to youths. The library refused to put an age limit on the obscene material. One woman read some of the passages from the objectionable book, and many who were present were shocked, but basically they supported the poor judgment that had purchased the books because of the hysteria generated about “censorship.” Also, they summarized their position and that of the objecting parents inaccurately; some might even say they lied. Another individual and I were not voted onto the board. Secular humanists defend each other (often, no matter what) and show their disdain for Christian moral values. The Lord will judge all such individuals (Acts 17:30-31).