Classroom Library Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ Menu
Classroom Library Books
For what purpose are classroom library materials selected?
MISD teachers seek to provide a wide range of instructional resources for students and faculty that present varying levels of difficulty, diversity of appeal, and a variety of points of view for the purpose of enriching and supporting the District’s educational program. Classroom library materials may relate directly to the instructional program or may provide support through recreational reading materials that enhance reading growth and ultimately academic success. (policy EF Legal & EFB Local). In policy school and classroom library items are referred to as instructional resources and self selected while textbook items are referred to as instructional materials and tied directly to course instruction.
How are classroom library resources selected?
Teachers seek to provide a balanced classroom library collection. Books are selected based on correlations with instructional standards, student input, reviews of recommended book lists, and personal research.
What factors are considered before books are purchased?
When a book is evaluated for purchase, consideration is given to the educational suitability (directly or as it provides recreational reading materials to support reading growth), the reading level, the interest level, the developmental appropriateness, diversity of appeal, point of view, professional book reviews and ratings, and overall appropriateness for the educational environment and needs of the campus. To view the MISD Book Selection Rubric, visit this LINK
What should I do if I feel a book doesn’t meet district selection guidelines?
While teachers spend a significant amount of time vetting books prior to selection, reviews and ratings do not always give an accurate depiction of the book. If you have a concern regarding a book, first make contact with the teacher. Give the book title and the page numbers that contain content of concern. The teacher will make an informal review of the book for suitability in the classroom collection. If after review, the teacher feels that the book meets selection criteria, the parent may choose to do a formal reconsideration request. (policy EF Legal & EFB Local)
What are the steps in a Formal Reconsideration Request?
The first step is to contact the campus principal to request a copy of the material to be reconsidered and the necessary forms. Forms can also be acquired through the district library director. Next, the parent reads the book and completes the reconsideration form. When the reconsideration form is returned to the campus principal or district administrator, a reconsideration committee will review the material according to policy. The parent of the committee decisions. (policy EF Legal & EFB Local)
How can I see a list of books that have been recommended for reconsideration?
To see a list of books that have been recommended for reconsideration, see this LINK. The reconsideration log will list all books that have been recommended for reconsideration starting November, 2021. The log is also updated to include committee reconsideration decisions once decisions are made.
What should I do if I still have questions about book removal and reconsideration?
See this guide by the Texas Library Association. LINK
Contact Mendy Autry mendy.autry@midlothianisd.org
Classroom Library Parent Access & Parent Input
What is the parent/guardian role in student selection of classroom library materials?
Midlothian ISD acknowledges that parents and guardians are the primary decision makers regarding their child's access to library resources. Students are afforded the opportunity to self-select classroom library resources. Teachers may assist a student in selecting classroom library resources; however, the ultimate determination of appropriateness remains with the student and parent or guardian. Parents and guardians are encouraged to communicate with their child's teacher (s) about special consideration regarding resources self-selected by their student. In accordance with state law and administrative procedures, parents or guardians may select alternative materials for their student.
How can parents/guardians see list of classroom books available to their child?
Contact your child's teacher(s) who will be able to provide a list of classroom library materials.
How can parents/guardians provide feedback regarding classroom libraries?
Parents and guardians are encouraged to contact the teachers of their children to provide feedback and ask questions. Contact information for teachers can be accessed on school websites.