New Jersey School Board Accused of Abusing Power by Rejecting Sociology Textbook

Introduction:

The Bernards Township School District (BTSD) school board in New Jersey faces accusations of abusing its power after refusing to purchase the sociology textbook "The Real World: An Introduction to Sociology" for advanced placement courses. The board claims the book promotes an ideology, while parents argue that the decision undermines teachers and restricts students' exposure to various perspectives.

School Board's Rejection of the Textbook

Approved by teachers and students: 

The textbook was already approved by BTSD teachers and students but was rejected by the school board due to concerns over its contents.

Criticism: 

Board members criticized the textbook's portrayal of women's rights, voter identification laws, and the 2014 Missouri police shooting death of Michael Brown.

Parental Backlash and Accusations of Censorship

Depressing decision: 

Parents attending a school board meeting expressed disappointment over the decision and argued that students should not be shielded from varying points of view.

Micromanaging:

Several parents felt that the board's rejection of a pre-approved textbook demonstrated a need for more trust in BTSD teachers.

Continuing Debate and Rejection of the Textbook

Abuse of power:

 A BTSD high school student accused the board of abusing its power and censoring content that challenges racism.

No resolution: 

The Monday night school board meeting ended with "The Real World: An Introduction to Sociology," still rejected by the BTSD school board.

Conclusion:

The Bernards Township School District school board in New Jersey is accused of abusing its power by rejecting the sociology textbook "The Real World: An Introduction to Sociology" for advanced placement courses, despite its approval by teachers and students. Parents argue that the decision restricts students' exposure to various perspectives and undermines teachers' expertise. The school board must still resolve the issue and accept the textbook.