School Officials Pledge Not To Use Watered Down Books and Curriculum

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

May 31, 2023

School Officials Pledge Not To Use Watered Down Books and Curriculum

School board members and superintendents sign the “Let Students Learn” pledge, demonstrating their commitment to stand alongside educators and families in resisting political pressures

WASHINGTON, DC - With the alarming rise of classroom censorship and its impact on what students learn, the Campaign for Our Shared Future (COSF) is partnering with school officials across the country to release the "Let Students Learn" pledge.

As many states push for restrictions on teaching the full and complete history of our country and discussing current events in classrooms, the need to safeguard freedom of expression and the free exchange of ideas has never been more crucial.

By making this pledge, school board members and superintendents are publicly denouncing publishers and curriculum companies that compromise their products under the influence of political extremists. Moreover, they are pledging their unwavering support for educators and families who tirelessly strive to provide an environment where our children can thrive and achieve success.

“Extremist politicians who seek to control our children's education and restrict certain ideas or perspectives are limiting the ability of our students to engage in independent thought and to form their own opinions,” said Heather Harding, Ed.D., Executive Director of COSF. “Our kids deserve an education that helps them learn the life skills and knowledge they'll need to be successful in their future and that includes the freedom to learn about a wide range of topics in an age-appropriate way. Our students should not be used as political pawns.”

"Every child deserves the freedom to learn our rich and diverse history, to explore a tapestry of stories, and to embrace one another's unique experiences. We refuse to let the disruptive voices of political extremists impede the joyful, inclusive education our children deserve,” said Kelly Gonez, Member of the Los Angeles Unified Board of Education.

"Our students thrive when families and educators collaborate to deliver exceptional, age-appropriate education and vital life skills. It is through this powerful partnership that we empower our students to excel academically, develop into well-rounded individuals, and pave their path towards a successful future,” said Arica Watkins Smith, Member of the Montgomery County Board of Education.

As book ban attempts reached a record high last year, it has become increasingly important to ensure that students have access to high-quality education that is free from political interference. This pledge addresses this issue and highlights the importance of maintaining the integrity of K-12 education.

To view a copy of the curriculum pledge, click here.

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The Campaign for Our Shared Future (COSF) is a non-partisan effort to support high-quality K-12 education and preserve access, inclusion, and meaningful content in our schools so that every student has an opportunity to succeed and thrive. COSF is a common ground effort committed to fighting the attack on education across the country.