I was sad to see that our revitalized national obsession with banning books had reached Franklin Regional (“Franklin Regional ‘pauses’ teaching of novel about Iranian Revolution after complaints,” March 7, TribLIVE).
I look back fondly at my years at FR and can say, unequivocally, that the teachers and administrators provided a robust educational experience. I sympathize with the current faculty as they strive to continue that standard while faced with the fevered, disjointed rantings of a small, yet radicalized, group of parents. Buoyed by the steady drumbeat of cultural grievance, these parents are acting out the unserious, nonsensical, performative outrage that is all too common in our society.
Unfortunately, this sub-sophomoric behavior impacts the ability of the faculty to challenge students and expand horizons. Furthermore, it creates an adversarial relationship between the municipality and the school district.
I don’t pretend to understand the literary merits of “Persepolis,” but the book was approved, through an established process, by knowledgeable professionals — professionals we entrust to educate the children of the district.
I would encourage the board to discount their puerile objections and continue the stellar educational work that Franklin Regional is noted for. Additionally, moderate residents must remain vigilant against those who would bring their grievance-filled politics to the forefront of our educational system.
Peter C. Pavone
Murrysville