School board president David Gogel stated that the book donations complied with NASD Instructional Materials policy. He stated “The staff really is struggling with having those conversations and providing the resources for those students of a diverse background, to assist them with their concerns.” At the August 9th meeting, the school board took up the issue again after board members has opportunity to meet with teachers and examine the titles under consideration. Kovalchik noted that there has been a significant uptick in teachers fielding questions from students about the environment, race, immigration, bullying, and historical figures with diverse backgrounds. There’s no reason to be segregating the world anymore. Just like the ‘No Place for Hate’ program, Conscious Kid is not an ally for all.” Despite not reading any of the books, Grandparent Shirley Arnold remarked “Those books will not help our children.

Kim Bretzik was one of 10 parents/grandparents to object to the donation stating, “The Conscious Kid uses Marxist critical race theory. The Northampton (PA) Area School District (NASD) school board unanimously voted to table a donation of dozens of books from The Conscious Kid, a non-profit organization focused on equity and promoting healthy racial identity development, after parents complained during their July 19th meeting. Marshall University does not ban books! The information is provided to let people know what has been banned/challenged elsewhere.

Crown an ode to the fresh cut book