“The Best Man” not the best for our children

Article contributed by a Friend of SAFA

This past spring my wife and I were shocked to learn that 3rd graders in my daughter’s elementary school in NISD were being shown a trailer on “The Best Man” by Richard Peck. This book is about an elementary school boy who’s male veteran teacher “falls in love” with and “marries” the student’s uncle. The student is the best man in the wedding. The trailer and book were being promoted because the book was part of the Texas Bluebonnet Award program. The program selects 20 books every year based on, “student interests, relevant content, reputable reviews, and literary quality.” School’s voluntarily participate in the program, but as a participant they must introduce and make available all the titles in the program. Our elementary school chose to participate in the program.

After learning of the showing, several parents, including myself, reached out to the principal and provided pointed feedback that this content was unacceptable for the 3rd grade level. I personally requested that any future content or instruction of this nature be shared with parents first to allow parent’s the opportunity to remove their children from the instruction. Our principal assured me she would provide that notice in the future.

This is just another clear example that traditional family values are under attack. Parents must be vigilant and monitor what their children are being exposed to in school and afterschool programs. Also, parents need to speak up when they do find something objectionable. Nearly all our friends had concerns about the book and trailer being shown, but only a handful had the courage to address it with the school administrators. We must have the moral courage to stand up for our values and protect our children. They are counting on us.