Overview
- The decision reverses a June 5-3 vote taken in a closed session that removed the young-adult graphic novel from middle and high school shelves.
- State officials said the superintendent’s retention decision stands and directed Harford County to revise its reconsideration process to ensure notice, transparency and community participation.
- The board found no specifics showing flaws in the review committee’s work, noting a local board may only overturn a superintendent if the decision is arbitrary or unreasonable.
- Board president Aaron Poynton said he disagrees with the ruling and is weighing procedural changes or a possible court challenge, while the district said it is strengthening practices.
- Advocacy group Together We Will helped appeal the removal under Maryland’s Freedom to Read framework, and reporters note another Harford title, “Girlmode,” is now under challenge.