Controversial book ‘Stamped’ added back into Pickens Co Schools libraries

PICKENS COUNTY, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - The Pickens County Schools Board of Trustees met last Thursday and voted to reinstate “Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You” back into high school libraries after it sparked controversy last year.

During the Board of Trustees meeting on July 6, 2023, the book was discussed during their executive session and listed on the agenda as “Legal Matters (Receipt of legal advice regarding Instructional Resources and Materials).”

Following the executive session, the board voted unanimously to allow the book back into high schools. However, they added that the book’s availability would be “subject to parental consent.”

Last year, the board voted unanimously to remove the book from libraries following a series of heated debates regarding it.

Earlier this year, a lawsuit was filed by the ACLU of South Carolina and NAACP, saying the decision was “unconstitutional” and that the book is “developmentally appropriate” as a high school resource.

Following the vote, the School District of Pickens County Released the following statement on the board’s determination and vote.

In a called board meeting held on July 6, 2023, the School District of Pickens County (SDPC) Board of Trustees voted to allow student access to the book “Stamped” in high school libraries subject to parental consent. This decision mirrors a motion made during the SDPC’s previous consideration of this book during the Board meeting of September 26, 2022. Since that time, the Board has continued to discuss the issue, has considered the perspectives of new Board members, and has continued to evaluate input from parents and other stakeholders. Members of the Board continue to have serious concerns regarding the book’s factual errors and omissions, its lack of educational rigor and suitability, and the potential that it could cause substantial disruption to the educational environment. After careful consideration and consultation, and in keeping with the Board’s respect for parental authority over the education and upbringing of their children, the Board decided in its July 6, 2023, meeting to allow “Stamped” to be available only in its high school libraries with parental consent. The Board has not altered its conclusion that, considering the concerns expressed above, “Stamped” is not appropriate for and may not be used in the SDPC school curriculum.
School District of Pickens County

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