An 11-year-old student in Maine recently brought attention to what he calls “pornographic” content at his middle school, calling for the administrators to face prosecution.
During a school board meeting, Knox Zajac, a sixth-grader, read from a book he had checked out of his school’s library called “Nick and Charlie,” written by Alice Oseman. The book, which carries a 14+ age advisory, depicts two teenage boys stealing wine from their parents and engaging in sexual experimentation.
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Zajac read several sexually explicit passages from the book, including one describing a scene in which the characters prepare to have sex. When Zajac rented the book and showed it to his father, the librarian offered him a graphic novel version and asked if he wanted more.
Zajac’s father, Adam, also spoke up at the meeting, condemning another book, “Gender Queer,” which he said also contained explicit sexual content involving minors. The book’s advisory recommends it for readers aged 18 and up.
Adam argued that such content violated state and federal laws prohibiting the possession or distribution of pornographic material involving children. He also criticized the school’s decision to make such books available to young students, saying that parents, not schools, should have the final say in what their children read.
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The incident has sparked a larger debate over the appropriateness of certain books in school libraries and the role of schools in regulating students’ reading materials.
What to do if you suspect child pornography in your school library.
If a parent suspects child pornography at the school library, they should take immediate action to report it to the appropriate authorities. Here are the steps they should take:
- Contact law enforcement: Call the police immediately to report the suspected child pornography. They will be able to investigate the matter and take appropriate action.
- Notify the school administration: Inform the school administration about the suspected child pornography at the library. They may also have protocols in place to address such issues.
- Seek legal advice: Consult with a lawyer to determine the best course of action to protect the child’s rights and to prevent any further harm.
- Seek support for the child: Offer support and resources for the child who may have been victimized. This can include counseling, medical attention, and legal support.
It is important to act quickly and responsibly when it comes to suspected child pornography. By reporting the incident, you are helping to protect children and prevent further harm.
