Book controversy at Delphi High

DELPHI, Ind. (WLFI) - Some Delphi High School parents are requesting three books be banned from the high school curriculum. The books are Chinese Handcuffs , by Chris Crutcher, The Bluest Eye , by Toni Morrison and In Country , by Bobbie Ann Mason. They are part of the junior class English curriculum.

Delphi Principal Barry Stone said some parents complained because drugs and sex are part of the subject matter.

But some students and teachers said learning about these real-life issues in a classroom setting is important, and believe the books have literary merit. One of the authors, Toni Morrison, is a Pulitzer Prize-winning author.

"Everyone's justified to determine what they feel is best for their students," said Stone.

Stone said he is trying to remain neutral with the controversy. He said he understands parents concerns for their children's education, but he also said he trusts his staffs' judgment.

"I trust them very much that they're making decisions that are best for the classroom and what's best to get students prepared for college," said Stone.

And college readiness is something Delphi Sophomore Eric Reese is concerned about if these books are banned.

"I'm not going to be prepared for it, and I need these kinds of books and this kind of material to be able to grow and mature," said Reese. "I don't want to be put behind because I haven't read these books."

Delphi High School English teacher Gabe Popovich teaches the novels to his juniors. He said the books help to enrich students' education.

"These really are the best books we could be using to teach the kids here," said Popovich. " What we're trying to do is just make sure that it's not this minority that dictates the curriculum."

Popovich said parents are concerned with the graphic nature of the books. But some students argue they are mature enough to handle it.

"You have the power to make your own decisions over things. A book may influence, but ultimately it's your decision," said one of Popovich's students.

"If I read a book about rape, or a book about murder, I'm not gonna read it and say 'wow, I'm gonna go murder and rape'," said Reese.

The fate of these books ultimately lies with the school board. And Stone said he will support the outcome whatever it may be.

"Whatever decision they make I've got full confidence in that's what's best for our students," said Stone.

A review committee made up of educators and former Delphi students heard the parents' complaints, read the books and decided the material is appropriate in a classroom setting.

Now the parents are appealing that decision to the school board.

The board will make the final decision Monday at 7 P.M at Delphi High School. The board will hear more comments about the issue. It will then determine whether or not to allow those books as part of the English curriculum.