The debate around the book “Let’s Talk About It” brought forth passionate public comments. Concerns were raised about the book’s appropriateness for minors, with specific passages cited as potentially violating New Jersey’s obscenity law. One individual argued that the material could pose dangers to vulnerable students and questioned the board’s role in setting policies to protect students from obscene content. In contrast, advocates for the book emphasized its educational value, arguing that it provides essential knowledge for sexual education and that diverse and inclusive materials are important for public libraries. A transgender student highlighted the repercussions of book banning on access to educational materials and diverse perspectives.

The discussion escalated with references to legal standards for determining obscenity, including the Miller test and the US Supreme Court case Board of Education versus Pico, which addresses the power of School Personnel to restrict access to books. Concerns were also expressed about external influences in the decision-making process and the potential community impact if the board was labeled as book banners.

A petition was presented to the board to keep “Let’s Talk About It” in the library, supporting intellectual freedom and the role of educators in selecting library materials. The Review Committee, consisting of six members, had met thrice and was split on the decision to retain or remove the book, with concerns centered on the sexting chapter.

During the board discussion, members debated the book’s place in the library. One board member shared students’ perspectives, stating the book was impactful and addressed topics like consent and safety. Another member urged consideration of professional opinions, like those of the American Library Association, which recommended the book. Yet, some members pointed to explicit content as a violation of state obscenity law and a risk to minors.

The board considered the broader educational context, discussing the consistency of messages about sexual predators and sexting in the overall curriculum and exploring options for parental control over their children’s access to certain books. The conversation extended to parent awareness of the Teen Pep program and the high volume of time and energy the book issue demanded, prompting a call for better solutions that balance parental concerns with the importance of diverse educational materials.

Ultimately, the motion to remove the book from the library did not carry, meaning the book remained accessible to students. This decision came amidst other educational and administrative discussions, such as the introduction of a gymnastics co-op team, professional development planning, diversity initiatives, and the ongoing budgetary challenges following a multi-year funding reduction.

However, the possibility of allowing towns to increase taxes in line with funding losses was discussed in light of a bill moving through the legislature. Updates on capital work, regionalization studies, and contracts for transportation and technology purchases were also covered.