The objection to “Freedom Writers Diary” was presented by Ms. Moore, who argued that the book’s content, which includes explicit language and themes such as sexual activity, nudity, profanity, violence, hate speech, racism, alcohol, and drug use, was not suitable for the district’s libraries. She cited Florida House Bill 1069 and Florida Statutes, particularly Section 847.011, to support her stance that the material should be removed due to its depiction of sexual conduct and other explicit content.

The committee methodically deliberated using the School Library Media Material Evaluation Checklist, which led to a structured discussion and a series of votes. The members concluded that while the book did depict sexual conduct as defined by statute, it was not unsuited to student needs and was appropriate for high school students, albeit with some division regarding its appropriateness for the middle school level. A committee member suggested that while not suitable for middle school, the material was appropriate for high school, leading to an initial recommendation for the book to be retained starting from the ninth grade.

Similarly, the committee reviewed “Slaughterhouse 5” after an objection by Jean Moore, who labeled its content as “sick and disturbing,” highlighting scenes of violence, cruelty, and explicit sexual imagery. The committee examined the book against the same guidelines and statutes, with the focus on whether the content was pornographic or inappropriate for the grade level and age group it was intended for.

After a thorough evaluation, the committee voted on the book’s suitability for high school students. The majority found that the material, while containing mature themes, was not pornographic and was appropriate for students in grades nine and up. Notably, one member emphasized the book’s anti-war perspective as being relevant to high school students, particularly those nearing the age of military recruitment.

The committee’s decision-making process was marked by careful consideration of the statutes, with an aim to balance the protection of students from unsuitable content with the educational value of the material. The meetings were conducted with civility and respect, as members were encouraged to express their views to reach a consensus.

Upon concluding their review, the committee members were instructed to return the books and any related notes. They were also asked to formally acknowledge their participation in the recommendation to Superintendent Forson, which would be accompanied by a summary of the committee’s discussions and decisions.