Group: 200 - Instructional Programs & Materials » AP 251 - Resource Selection, Adoption and Challenge

AP 251 - Resource Selection, Adoption and Challenge

Background

The learning materials for schools shall be selected from the Core and Additional Resources or bibliography lists accompanying the curriculum guides.  Additional learning resources may be selected by teachers or librarians to support classroom instruction or student interest.

The criteria for selection of curriculum resources include:

  • Congruence with educational outcomes;
  • Appropriateness for the intellectual and social maturity of the intended audience;
  • Accuracy of content;
  • Appropriateness of language and visuals;
  • Inclusion of varying points of view and value positions.

Procedures

1.  The proposal of a Locally Developed Course should include a list of proposed learning resources.

2.  For most locally developed courses, materials approved by the Ministry will be used.

3.  If anyone wishes to challenge educational material, the following procedure shall be followed:

3.1.  For a school level challenge:
3.1.1.  The parent/guardian shall first contact the teacher or school administration involved regarding the objectionable material(s) following the AP-152 Concerns and Issues procedure.
3.1.2.  The principal shall discuss the situation and present the parent(s)/guardian(s).
3.1.3.  A meeting shall be scheduled and attended by the principal to include the parent(s)/guardian(s) concerned and the employee with the direct supervision of the material under question.
3.1.4.  If the issue cannot be resolved at this meeting, the principal shall forward a copy of the “Request for Challenge of Educational Materials” as completed by the concerned parent(s)/guardian(s) to the Director of Education (or designate).
3.2.  For a Division level challenge, the Director (or designate) shall form a committee consisting of:
3.2.1.  Two members of the School Community Council.
      • The sub-division trustee.
      • An Area Superintendent.
      • This committee is to make a complete analysis of the material in question.
3.2.2.  The committee as structured above shall meet with the concerned parent(s)/guardian(s) and any other persons it deems necessary to make a decision on the degree of acceptability of the material under consideration.
3.2.3.   The decision of the committee shall be binding on all parties involved.

3.2.4.  The concerned parent(s)/guardian(s) shall be notified of the committee’s decision(s).


Reference:  Sections 85, 87, 109, 175, Education Act
Section 37, Education Regulations

February 8, 2011