As a student at Norman Public Schools, I've always been an enthusiastic reader, constantly seeking new and diverse stories to fuel my imagination and learning. However, the recent decision by Norman Public Schools to ban access to Archive of Our Own (AO3) on our school networks has directly impacted my ability to engage with fanfiction literature and explore a wide array of narratives that encourage critical thinking and creativity.

AO3 is a nonprofit open-source repository for fanfiction and other transformative fanworks contributed by users worldwide. It boasts a vast community of writers and readers, who share their love for various media by creating stories that expand and explore existing plots and characters. For students like myself, AO3 offers a platform to not only enjoy stories but also to develop literacy skills, understand diverse perspectives, and foster a love for writing and storytelling.

The decision to ban AO3 undercuts an invaluable resource—a venue where imaginations can thrive and creativity is nurtured. It's important to note that AO3 has robust tagging and filtering systems that allow users to curate content according to their preferences, making it a safer, more customizable environment than many other internet platforms.

By blocking AO3, Norman Public Schools is inadvertently stifling access to a unique form of education and community. This decision directly conflicts with the school's mission to provide a comprehensive and inclusive educational experience. Students deserve the right to explore varied literary forms, especially those that talk to our generation and engage us actively in reading and writing.

I urge the Norman Public School board to reconsider this decision and restore access to AO3. Doing so would not only support the intellectual and creative growth of students but also align with the educational values of inclusivity and open access to information. Let's ensure that our schools are places of unlimited learning opportunities that prepare us for the future by embracing diverse forms of literature.

Please join me in calling on Norman Public Schools to unban AO3 and allow us to continue growing through the stories we read and create. Your signature can help restore a valuable learning resource.