Trustees from New Braunfels Independent School District have reopened school libraries following a 10-day closure to review books in the district’s system.
The closure began on October 13, when trustees unanimously approved the closure of district libraries to review books and ensure compliance with Senate Bill 13. The measure is intended to protect children from sexual ideology and increase transparency in content accessible to children.
During the closure, the district identified 80 books that will be reviewed, with several already having been determined to contain content that is not in compliance with SB 13.
Among the titles that are still under review by the district are several that contain radical sexual ideology and sexually explicit content.
These include “Me and Earl and the Dying Girl,” a graphic novel in which the author depicts sexual images, and “Flamer,” which contains references to sexually explicit topics, partial nudity, and allusions to masturbation. Also included is “The Bluest Eye,” which depicts child molestation, rape, and incest.
Prior to this decision to review the library catalog, New Braunfels ISD confirmed that the “Alphabet Soup” club, led by a librarian, was being “paused” to ensure compliance with another state law, Senate Bill 12. SB 12, known as the “Parental Bill of Rights,” prohibits clubs focused on sexual ideologies in government schools.
The club, which appeared to focus on LGBT issues, was advertised as “The Kindness Club” at Oak Run Middle School. It was run by the middle school’s librarian, Amanda Hunt.
Hunt’s X profile includes her preferred pronouns (she/her), and her resume cites her creation of “necessary & inclusive programs” such as “LGBTQ+ clubs.”
Some parents have shared concerns with Texas Scorecard that Hunt will subvert any policies aimed at keeping children away from LGBT material in the future due to her ideological leanings.
Texas Scorecard reached out to New Braunfels ISD for comment on the status of the club as well as plans for how the district will address any issues with its staff regarding subversion of state law, but did not receive a reply before publication.
