Superintendent confirms that schools will not impose book bans.
Cherry Hill, NJ—In a recent Board of Education meeting, Cherry Hill Public Schools Superintendent Kwame Morton addressed community concerns regarding a proposed policy involving parental consent for students to check out “sensitive” books from school libraries. The internal memo that initiated this discussion was circulated on October 31 by the district’s director of curriculum and instruction and quickly garnered significant attention and criticism from parents and educators alike.
The memo suggested that parental permission might become a requirement for students seeking to borrow particular library materials. The implications of this proposal raised alarms among parents and members of local educational advocacy groups, including the New Jersey chapter of Media Literacy Now. In response to the backlash, Superintendent Morton emphasized that the district is not implementing any book bans, assuring attendees at the meeting that the school administration aims to promote, not restrict, access to literature.
Morton reiterated that there will be no requirement for parental permission slips for library checkouts. He acknowledged the concerns expressed by parents, stating firmly that the district is not pursuing censorship or book bans. Additionally, Morton discussed engaging with school media specialists to gather input on potential protocols for book selection, although details from these discussions remain undisclosed.
In other community developments, the anticipated .5 million Kresson Road improvement project is progressing to enhance safety and access, expected to be completed by August of next year. Furthermore, popular party supply retailer Party City is making a comeback in Cherry Hill, following its previous closure after filing for bankruptcy. The company plans to establish a pop-up shop at Staples on Marlton Pike in the upcoming weeks.
Local dining options are also evolving, with establishments in the area preparing for Thanksgiving. Several restaurants will offer sit-down dinners to cater to those opting for dining out over traditional home-cooked meals.
This combination of educational policy discussions and local business updates underscores Cherry Hill’s ongoing community engagement and responsiveness to its residents’ needs. As the district navigates the complexities of educational access and parental involvement, the broader community continues to adapt and thrive amid these changes.
