Reading Materials
All reading materials are to be in harmony with the mission and philosophy of the school. Materials being brought from home must be approved by the teacher.
Standards for Good Reading and Library/Media Materials
Adopted February 10, 2007
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things.
- The Bible is to take first place in the reading done by Christians. Other literature may supplement it, but no literature, however valuable, is to take it’s place.
- Children need to learn to read critically. Literature can contain both truth and error, but should refrain from leading the reader away from Biblical truth.
- Time is a talent of which Christians are stewards. Use your time wisely to read a good book.
- Literature of a recreational nature should be interesting and provide pleasure. The reader should learn to read for pleasure as well as purpose.
- Reading matter, and all media presentations, which emphasize the details of sin, crime, and violence dull one’s sensitivities and should be avoided.
- The fact that a story is fictional does not preclude its value. Some of Jesus’ parables are fictitious. Fiction as a form, or vehicle, is acceptable if its message is not fictitious. Therefore, individual titles should be evaluated with careful regard to Biblical principles.
- Adults are to guide youth in their choice of reading matter. They are to do this in a positive way. Youth will develop a taste for the good by being exposed to it. Interesting, worthwhile literature of all genres should be provided for them. They are to be taught to be critical readers.
- Children should be provided age-appropriate materials that present current issues and relate to a variety of cultures and differences in a non-demeaning manner.
- Books will be judged individually on the value of their content and the over-all good to be gained by the reader. Some materials may have marginal references to non-christian standards but still be furnished IF it is CLEARLY marginal and the context has significant value.
- Science materials containing brief references to evolution, whose major content is of value, will be present. This is an opportunity for the teacher to point out the differences in the Biblical Creationists and the Evolutionists points of view and an occasion to use their critical thinking.