Require Edwardsville School District to review reading materials
The Issue
To: Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 & Board of Education
The Problem
Our current school curriculum at Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 includes required reading materials that undermine an inclusive learning environment. While our culture strives for diversity, some selected literature contains outdated and racially insensitive content.
For example, To Kill a Mockingbird includes 48 instances of a racial slur and presents racial themes in ways that many modern families find offensive.
It is crucial for educational institutions to foster an environment where every student feels welcomed, respected, and valued.
Why It Matters Now
- Academic Impact: Studies show that diverse, culturally relevant narratives significantly enhance student engagement and academic success.
- Student Well-being: Materials that perpetuate stereotypes or rely on historical slurs can harm students both psychologically and academically.
- Community Demand: Parents, educators, and community members are actively voicing concerns about the lack of modern representation in our classrooms.
Our Proposed Solution
We are not just asking for removals; we are asking for an upgrade. Countless contemporary authors offer insightful, engaging literature that reflects the varied experiences of all students. Transitioning to these modern texts will enrich classroom learning and foster genuine empathy among peers.
The Call to Action
We, the undersigned parents, educators, students, and community members, urge the School Board to take immediate action:
- Form a Review Committee: Establish a diverse curriculum review committee consisting of educators, parents, students, and diversity experts.
- Evaluate Current Texts: Review all mandatory reading materials to assess their impact on student well-being and inclusivity.
- Update the Curriculum: Replace outdated, racially insensitive texts with high-quality, contemporary literature that reflects and respects every student.
Sign this petition today to demand a curriculum that leads by example
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The Issue
To: Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 & Board of Education
The Problem
Our current school curriculum at Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 includes required reading materials that undermine an inclusive learning environment. While our culture strives for diversity, some selected literature contains outdated and racially insensitive content.
For example, To Kill a Mockingbird includes 48 instances of a racial slur and presents racial themes in ways that many modern families find offensive.
It is crucial for educational institutions to foster an environment where every student feels welcomed, respected, and valued.
Why It Matters Now
- Academic Impact: Studies show that diverse, culturally relevant narratives significantly enhance student engagement and academic success.
- Student Well-being: Materials that perpetuate stereotypes or rely on historical slurs can harm students both psychologically and academically.
- Community Demand: Parents, educators, and community members are actively voicing concerns about the lack of modern representation in our classrooms.
Our Proposed Solution
We are not just asking for removals; we are asking for an upgrade. Countless contemporary authors offer insightful, engaging literature that reflects the varied experiences of all students. Transitioning to these modern texts will enrich classroom learning and foster genuine empathy among peers.
The Call to Action
We, the undersigned parents, educators, students, and community members, urge the School Board to take immediate action:
- Form a Review Committee: Establish a diverse curriculum review committee consisting of educators, parents, students, and diversity experts.
- Evaluate Current Texts: Review all mandatory reading materials to assess their impact on student well-being and inclusivity.
- Update the Curriculum: Replace outdated, racially insensitive texts with high-quality, contemporary literature that reflects and respects every student.
Sign this petition today to demand a curriculum that leads by example
The Decision Makers
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Petition created on July 31, 2026