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Steiner Waldorf Pedagogy in Schools

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This book offers a comprehensive exploration of Steiner or Waldorf pedagogy and practice in schools. Drawing on key research, it traces the origins of Steiner education from the original Waldorf school and shows how this approach has since been adapted and applied in educational settings around the world.

Outlining the educational philosophy of Steiner education, the book considers its unique features, such as its commitment to a pedagogical anthropology that takes the whole developing human being into account – body, mind and spirit – and the developmental approach that arises out of this. It sets out the specific curriculum and teaching approach alongside vignettes of teaching and learning situations adopted in Steiner educational settings to show how the approach works in practice. Offering a critical perspective on this teaching style, Rawson examines the contributions that Steiner education has made in different cultures and looks towards future developments in China and other Asian countries.

Considering all aspects of Steiner education, this book is essential reading for anyone wanting to understand the fundamental elements of this approach and its continuing relevance within the educational landscape.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter | 9  pages, introduction, part 1 | 40  pages, rudolf steiner and the origins of his educational ideas, part 2 | 82  pages, generative principles of teaching and learning in waldorf education, part 3 | 26  pages, communities of learning, part 4 | 24  pages, waldorf education and the academy, part 5 | 10  pages, waldorf schools around the world, chapter | 5  pages, conclusions.

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Rudolf steiner & the history of waldorf education.

Waldorf education has its roots in the spiritual-scientific research of the Austrian scientist and thinker  Rudolf Steiner  (1861-1925). According to Steiner's philosophy, the human being is a threefold being of spirit, soul, and body whose capacities unfold in three developmental stages on the path to adulthood: early childhood, middle childhood, and adolescence. In April of 1919, Rudolf Steiner visited the Waldorf Astoria cigarette factory in Stuttgart, Germany. The German nation, defeated in war, was teetering on the brink of economic, social, and political chaos. Steiner spoke to the workers about the need for social renewal, for a new way of organizing society and its political and cultural life. Emil Molt, the owner of the factory, asked Steiner if he would undertake to establish and lead a school for the children of the employees of the company. Steiner agreed, and in September 1919, the Independent Waldorf School  ( die Freie Waldorfschule )  opened its doors.

About Rudolf Steiner

Beginning at the end of the 19th century, a relatively unknown Austrian philosopher and teacher began to sow the seeds of what he hoped would blossom into a new culture. The seeds were his ideas, which he sowed through extensive writings, lectures and countless private consultations. The seeds germinated and took root in the hearts and minds of his students, among whom were individuals who would later become some of the best known and most influential figures of the 20th century. Since the teacher's death in 1925, a quiet but steadily growing movement, unknown and unseen by most people, has been spreading over the world, bringing practical solutions to the problems of our global, technological civilization. The seeds are now coming to flower in the form of thousands of projects infused with human values. The teacher, called by some "the best kept secret of the 20th century," was Rudolf Steiner. Steiner, a truly "Renaissance man," developed a way of thinking that he applied to different aspects of what it means to be human. Over a period of 40 years, he formulated and taught a path of inner development or spiritual research he called, "anthroposophy." From what he learned, he gave practical indications for nearly every field of human endeavor. Art, architecture, drama, science, education, agriculture, medicine, economics, religion, care of the dying, social organization - there is almost no field he did not touch. Today, wherever there is a human need you'll find groups of people working out of Steiner's ideas. There are an estimated ten thousand initiatives worldwide - the movement is a hotbed of entrepreneurial activity, social and political activism, artistic expression, scientific research, and community building. Contemporary manifestations of Steiner's influence include Waldorf education,  Biodynamic farming and gardening , and the  Camphill Movement  for the support of people with disabilities. Many thanks to the authors of this article, Christopher Bamford and Eric Utne, who generously allowed for its use here.  

Waldorf Education: About Rudolf Steiner Revised for use on  Why Waldorf Works , this article by Henry Barnes, former Chairman of the Board of AWSNA, originally appeared in the October 1991 issue of  Educational Leadership Magazine .

"My meeting with Rudolf Steiner led me to occupy myself with him from that time forth and to remain always aware of his significance. We both felt the same obligation to lead man once again to true inner culture. I have rejoiced at the achievements his great personality and his profound humanity have brought about in the world." ~ Albert Schweitzer

“The need for imagination, a sense of truth, and a feeling of responsibility; these are the very nerve of education.”  ~ Rudolf Steiner

1st Edition

Steiner Waldorf Pedagogy in Schools A Critical Introduction

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Description

This book offers a comprehensive exploration of Steiner or Waldorf pedagogy and practice in schools. Drawing on key research, it traces the origins of Steiner education from the original Waldorf school and shows how this approach has since been adapted and applied in educational settings around the world. Outlining the educational philosophy of Steiner education, the book considers its unique features, such as its commitment to a pedagogical anthropology that takes the whole developing human being into account – body, mind and spirit – and the developmental approach that arises out of this. It sets out the specific curriculum and teaching approach alongside vignettes of teaching and learning situations adopted in Steiner educational settings to show how the approach works in practice. Offering a critical perspective on this teaching style, Rawson examines the contributions that Steiner education has made in different cultures and looks towards future developments in China and other Asian countries. Considering all aspects of Steiner education, this book is essential reading for anyone wanting to understand the fundamental elements of this approach and its continuing relevance within the educational landscape.

Table of Contents

Martyn Rawson currently works on the Waldorf Master Programme at the Waldorlehrerseminar Kiel and at the Freie Hochschule Stuttgart on the International Master Programme in Germany. He is currently Honorary Professor at the National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan and is an alumni research fellow at Plymouth University. His research focusses on curriculum development in Steiner/Waldorf education, teacher education and learning as well as learning and development in students of all ages.

Critics' Reviews

"This book is very informative in its penetration of the complex ideas that constitutes the grounds for Waldorf pedagogical practice(s). Furthermore, it opens up the relatively unknown world of Waldorf schools by pointing out many mainstream (more or less) academic theories and perspectives, from which Waldorf pedagogy can also – at least partly – be understood." - Bo Dahlin , The Philosophy of Education Society of Great Britain

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Steiner Education in Theory and Practice

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This is a detailed account of Rudolf Steiner’s view of children, and the role education must play in their successful development.

Gilbert Childs examines and explains the curriculum of Steiner-Waldorf schools, showing how their unique teaching practices take a holistic view of the child. He looks particularly at issues such as creativity, imagination, and intellect, and how the schools try to produce rounded, responsible young adults.

He concludes that our approach to the education of our children is an issue of the utmost urgency for the future of our society.

About the Author

Gilbert J. Childs (1923-2013) taught at Steiner schools in Germany and England. He later qualified as a teacher in the state system and lectured in English. In his retirement he was an avid biodynamic gardener.

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5 Books On AI In Education And Why You Should Read Them

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I've read far too many books on ChatGPT and artificial intelligence.

Almost all of them are a waste of time when it comes to applying them to education.

But, there are five books educators on LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook have recommended. And it's these five books I recommend to every educator exploring AI.

I've authored a best-seller for educators on artificial intelligence, " The AI Classroom: The Ultimate Guide to Artificial Intelligence in Education ," and I'm currently working on a practical guide for leaders on AI strategy. Being deeply immersed in the world of AI books for educators, I can confidently say that whether you are new to AI, experimenting with it, or already incorporating it into your practices, these are books worth your time:

AI For Educators By Matt Miller

AI for Educators is a readable guide that translates AI through a teacher lens.

It offers practical ideas you can use in class right away. It unlocks powerful ways to streamline teaching, save time and paints a picture of the future our students will face, providing questions you can help them grapple with.

Dana Leonardo, a technology integration educator from Gilbert, Arizona, praises the book for its clarity and practical advice: "Miller's book gets at the heart of what educators need to know about AI, including practical applications, benefits, and cautions. This text brilliantly explains how and why we need to use AI as a tool, while leveraging our most valuable asset—our humanity."

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Why christina ricci is giving up ownership of wednesday addams, howard university returning sean diddy combs 1 million donation amid sexual misconduct allegations, brave new worlds by salman khan.

Salman Khan, the visionary behind Khan Academy, explores how AI and GPT technology will transform learning.

Khan offers a road map for teachers, parents and students to navigate this exciting new world. Beyond technology, Khan delves into the ethical and social implications of AI, providing insights on how administrators, guidance counselors and hiring managers can harness AI to build a more accessible education system.

Kevin Soli, a homeschooling parent from Papua New Guinea, highlights the book's value: "I homeschool my children so this book is very encouraging for me as a parent. ChatGPT is like your tech-buddy—not just to answer your prompts but to prompt you too, asking probing questions that challenge assumptions, clarify concepts and encourage deeper dialogue."

Practical AI Strategies By Leon Furze

Furze explores the opportunities and challenges of AI in education.

He offers insights into its workings and ethical considerations. The book guides readers through the construction and ethics of generative AI, navigates policy landscapes and provides practical strategies. It has detailed sections on text and image generation and preparations for multimodal technologies like video, audio and 3D generation.

Al Kingsley, chair of Hampton Academies Trust in the UK, emphasizes the book’s approach: “This is an excellent book. It’s highly accessible, evidence informed and structured to step you through AI basics, ethics and assessment.”

Teaching with AI By Jose Antonio Bowen And C. Edward Watson

Bowen and Watson present emerging and powerful research on the seismic changes AI is already creating in schools and the workplace, providing invaluable insights into what AI can accomplish in the classroom and beyond.

Dr. Heather M. Brown, an instructional designer from Virginia, shared, “The book resonates with me because it adopts a holistic view of AI's potential, challenging us to embrace this revolution as an opportunity to reimagine education.”

The AI Infused Classroom By Holly Clark

The key to successfully integrating any digital tool, according to Clark, is to focus on the deep learning and masterful pedagogy teachers can achieve amidst educational shifts.

The AI Infused Classroom emphasizes that AI will bring about changes, but it does not replace the need for well-trained and highly qualified teachers in the classroom. Students need educators’ guidance now more than ever to prepare for the world of AI. With the right mindset, questions and strategies, educators can use AI to create and broaden meaningful learning experiences for every student.

The AI Classroom and most of the books listed above tackle the issues of ethics and equity in AI education. But educators always welcome more guidance on this topic. That's why I’m looking forward to the upcoming book, "The Promises and Perils of AI in Education" by Ken Shelton and Dee Lanier. It’s not published yet, but it should be available soon.

One Reminder Before You Go

Reading is great, but applying what you read is better.

Reading books on AI in education feels productive. And it is! Until a certain point. Then, it turns into procrastination disguised as "research." How do you avoid falling into this trap?

Easy—start integrating AI into your educational practices every day.

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Why This Florida Mom Sued the Board of Education Over Book Bans

T hree Florida parents sued Florida’s Board of Education on Thursday because they allege the board violates their rights by not having a process to object to the removal of books from school libraries and classrooms.

In the lawsuit, which was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida, the plaintiffs say that Florida law H.B. 1069 violates their First Amendment rights and discriminates against parents who oppose book bans because it does not outline a formal process for individuals to challenge or overturn a decision when their school board removes a book. But the law does require school boards to adopt policies based on parent objections to books or material. 

“The statute only provides a mechanism for a parent to object to the affirmative use of material; it does not provide a mechanism for a parent to object to the lack of use or discontinued use of material,” the lawsuit says. 

Parents of public school children cited the removal of books including Slaughterhouse-Five , A Stolen Life , Freedom Writers Diary , and others in the complaint. “Neither one of my children had classroom libraries because of the fear of being found out of compliance for a book on the shelf,” says Stephana Ferrell, 41, a parent of two kids in Orange County Public Schools and plaintiff in the case.

H.B. 1069 restricts classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity, defines sex an “immutable biological trait,” and prevents public school employees or contractors from sharing their preferred pronouns or titles to students if their identity differed from their sex assigned at birth.

Read More: A Visit to the Banned-Book Bus With a Scholar Who Helped Develop Critical Race Theory

This is not the first lawsuit filed against H.B. 1069. A judge also issued a preliminary injunction in April in favor of a transgender teacher who sued to be able to use their preferred pronouns in the classroom, though the case was appealed and is now heading to the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. 

Those involved in the Florida case say it’s part of a larger trend in the U.S. “The nation is facing a concerning uptick in attacks on public education and in attacks on books and ideas throughout the country,” said Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward, the organization that is representing plaintiffs in the case. PEN America tracked more than 3,300 instances of book bans in the 2022-23 school year.

Ferrell spoke to TIME by phone on June 6 about why she decided to sue the Board of Education. 

This conversation has been lightly edited for length and clarity. 

TIME: What led you to join the lawsuit?  

Ferrell: I'm a very concerned parent. Over the last few years, with the different legislation that has passed, I've seen not only my children but my friends and communities impacted by the rise in censorship. Neither one of my children had classroom libraries because of the fear of being found out of compliance for a book on the shelf. 

I've done my best to advocate in as many ways as I can— I attend my school board meetings, I track and follow what I can regarding school censorship, and I've spoken out locally, and even at the state level, attending workshops and submitting public comment when possible.

I've seen far too many books be labeled as completely unlawful. I know people are hesitant to use the word ban, but once you're talking about labeling a book as unlawful, there's no way—no matter how much a student wants to read it, no matter how much a parent supports it—that a district can bring that book back into the community, in our schools. That long term impact on my children's education and access to what should be protected speech has been a growing concern of mine.

One of the books that was being removed from Florida classrooms and that you were trying to un-ban was Shut Up! by Marilyn Reynolds, correct? 

I wanted my district to review this decision process. We have a very good, thorough review policy in Orange County that is public, and that's not what took place regarding this particular book. The review that I was asking for wasn't necessarily, “please return this book now,” but “please go through the process and allow the public to participate, and let's decide together whether or not this book should be back on our shelves.” That's what didn't take place.

Why did this particular book stand out to you? And why did you want this specific review of this book?

The overall reason for my concern was not specifically about the book, but just the process itself. I want a process that allows thoughtful discussion. We have that in our policy in Orange County— it didn't happen. And if I think if it had happened, the book would have been retained because the initial objection was its use in curriculum, and not actually questioning whether or not it should be in the library. 

This particular book covers sexual assault of a minor, which is a difficult topic, but it's written from the perspective of the older brother who goes through a lot of grief and anguish over not being able to assist, and realize what was happening, to his brother earlier. 

I think it's really important that the book presents situations that students might not realize [are bad], and grooming situations with what [students might] think is a trusted adult. Because it's written from a teenager's perspective, somebody in that situation would use the language that [the author] used, and probably go through a lot of the feelings and emotions that are in that book. 

While that book might not be appropriate for every child—and I do believe that parents have to set restrictions on their own kids—that could be a very valuable book and tool that could help save lives. 

Read More: The Heavy Cost of Banning Books About Black Children

How involved were you in your child's school curriculum before these book bans started to happen?

I consider myself an independent voter. I wasn't the person that showed up to protests and rallies or events. During COVID I became a little bit more vocal about what I felt was necessary for the protection of my children. I was always following along with the curriculum, I would volunteer in the classroom, I was there on field trips. I was my school's yearbook photographer for big events. 

My husband and I only wanted public schools for our kids. When we selected the house that we now live in, we knew the schools were going to grow up in. 

Attacks that started in ‘21, ‘22 [the legislature passed H.B. 1069 in 2023, but other laws like the state’s so-called “Don’t Say Gay” law passed in 2022 ] have continued ever since. It's not just books, it's not just curriculum; it's discussions in the classrooms, it's a massive building up of distrust in public education. My teachers have been absolutely wonderful. They have stretched them in every way, shape and form… I have a lot of gratitude for the educators that have invested time and not just my kids, but in truly making my school community something that is exciting for my kids to go to every single morning. It pains me as a parent to see these attacks happen, and not enough fellow citizens standing up for and defending the wonderful system that we have in place here.

Are you at all concerned about the publicity or the blowback you or your children might receive because you are a plaintiff in this lawsuit?

There's been assumptions about who I am. Those things have led to personal attacks and mischaracterizations of who I am. It is frustrating. I am a very private person. I do my best to shield my kids from this.

I'm not somebody that is going to post photos of my children publicly and leave them open to harassment. My kids are very proud of the advocacy that I do. And I have their support and my husband's support. My children have the right to an education—it's in our Florida constitution. They also have a right to privacy and I hope that that's respected in this process.

What is it like to be a parent of school age children in Florida right now?

I didn't grow up here, and I would leave tomorrow if possible, honestly. But it's also hard because I do love this community. It's why I stay and it's why I advocate, not just for my own kids, but for everybody because our schools are the hearts of our communities. These book bans, the narrowing of our curriculum and the discussions that we can have in our classroom , the othering of people, that division that's been sown, is going to impact and it has impacted our communities. My family is a multiracial extended family, and it's been really difficult. 

Public education is not only the great equalizer, but it helps unite us from state to state, community to community, across the country. If we have certain states teaching certain things, and certain viewpoints, and others teaching something totally different, it will further divide us as a country.

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Banishing Captain Underpants: An investigation of the 3,400 books pulled in Iowa.

Part of a continuing series in the Des Moines Register’s Iowa’s Book Ban Battle project.  

Last fall, Mari Butler Abry was one of hundreds of educators facing a daunting new task: vetting thousands of books to comply with a sweeping Iowa education law that bans books depicting sex acts from schools. 

A teacher-librarian at Perry Community School District, Butler Abry and several school officials surveyed books by briefly reviewing lists from other schools, reading book summaries and even tried to use ChatGPT to narrow down which of the district's more than 20,000 books needed to be pulled. 

They didn't calculate the time they spent on the process, but it included research before meetings, the meetings themselves and helping teachers who had questions about books. 

More: John Green, Toni Morrison, Jodi Picoult, Colleen Hoover among most banned authors in Iowa

"We decided it was not our job to physically flip through all the books in the library," Butler Abry said. "No one has time for that." 

In the end, Perry removed only three books because of Senate File 496, Iowa's new law requiring “age-appropriate” library programs and prohibiting most books depicting or describing sex acts from schools. The law also restricts instruction and curriculum about gender identity and sexual orientation through sixth grade.  

But an exclusive Des Moines Register survey of Iowa's 325 public school districts found that some schools pulled dozens – even hundreds – of books under the law before a federal judge issued an injunction last December after Butler Abry and other teachers, families and publishers sued.

The Register's reporting also shows several schools returned their pulled books to the shelves after the injunction.

Other districts – more than half – didn't remove books, including the Mount Vernon Community School District and Des Moines Public Schools. Several cited the injunction for their decision. 

Even so, the Register's exclusive data shows districts removed nearly 3,400 books and two DVDs to comply with the law, including nearly 1,000 unique titles.

Related: What is a sex act in Iowa? And how would it affect a likely school book ban? We found out:

The data also exposes the breadth of pulled books, including the American classic “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, the Newbery Medal novel “The Giver” by Lois Lowry and “Captain Underpants and the Sensational Saga of Sir Stinks-A-Lot,” a popular children's book with an LGBTQ+ character, by Dav Pilkey.

The removals in Iowa are emblematic of a national trend in which thousands of unique titles – many of them classics or modern children's favorites – are being targeted for removal from public schools and libraries. Data from the American Library Association shows a dramatic increase in book removals in recent years: In 2022, 2,571 titles were targeted, which was, at the time, a record high . Last year, the number soared to 4,240 unique books, the ALA found .

For Butler Abry, the frustrating experience illustrates what she and other opponents view as the overly broad nature of Senate File 496, which they say is so vague that it conflates literature with pornography and discriminates against LGBTQ+ Iowans.  

“It was like we were having to solve a problem that we had already solved,” Butler Abry said of having to vet books when policies already existed for the public to challenge books. “But with very little guidance, and in a way that we were very scared that people were going to come in and yell at us metaphorically or in real life.” 

Republican lawmakers who passed the law contend that school officials have gone far beyond the law’s intent, removing classic books and novels they say do not contain explicit sex.  

Related: After federal judge's injunction on Iowa's book ban law, confusion and concerns linger

George Orwell’s “1984” is one of the books Iowa Senate Education Committee Chair Ken Rozenboom, a Republican, says was caught up in the overreach. The book was pulled by nine districts, the Register survey found.

Only one district has returned the book to the shelves, the Register found.

“The plain text of Senate File 496 does not ban a single book. All it does is put forth an age-appropriateness standard for the districts to apply for themselves,” Rep. Jeff Shipley, a Republican from Birmingham, said. “Therefore, when these school districts are banning ‘1984,’ and when these school districts are banning Holocaust memoirs, that is 100% on them. Nothing in state law compelled them to do that."

Rozenboom said he reread the classic novel during the 2023 legislative session as lawmakers crafted the bill’s language prohibiting books depicting or describing sexual acts as defined by law .

"'1984' never met that definition – never did,” he said of the dystopian book about an authoritarian state that censors information.

"1984" does contain sexual content: Main characters Julia and Winston talk about and later have sex. Within the first 20 pages of the book, Winston fantasizes about having sex with Julia and killing her.

Lawmakers were warned by library associations that books like Orwell's best-known novel could be caught up in the bans, Butler Abry said.

"I guess they should be more careful about the way they write laws because if this had unintended consequences, people tried to tell them what consequences this would have," she said, "and the lawmakers didn't listen."

Thousands of books removed under Iowa law, Register finds

On Jan. 30, the Register launched a statewide survey to determine how many books have been removed from Iowa’s 325 public schools under Senate File 496 and were returned to shelves after the injunction. 

Register reporters undertook the task because no Iowa governmental body, including the Iowa Department of Education, is required to track materials removed because of the law. 

Hundreds of open record requests showed that, after Senate File 496 passed in April 2023 ,  banned books in Iowa schools led to a culling that included thousands of books. 

A previous Register investigation documented just 100 challenges, encompassing 60 individual book titles and one movie in Iowa's public school districts between August 2020 and May 2023.

Related: In 3 years, 60 books have been challenged in Iowa schools. A new law could ban far more.

All 325 Iowa's public school districts responded to the Register's survey on Senate File 496, with 92% responding to a question about whether they;d removed books in response to the new law.

Of the 325 districts, 36% confirmed they had removed at least one book because of the law. In total, the Register identified 3,385 books – and two DVDs – removed. After the injunction, 1,295 of those books were returned to shelves.  

That means more than 2,000 books remain inaccessible to students, including works by renowned authors such as Orwell, Toni Morrison and Stephen King.

"It's unacceptable that some schools are continuing to follow this blocked law,” said Thomas Story, ACLU of Iowa staff attorney. The ACLU is representing plaintiffs in one of two lawsuits against SF 496.

On average, school districts removed about 30 books. But some districts removed more than 100 titles, including Clear Lake, 126; West Burlington, 142; and Clear Creek-Amana, 230.

After the injunction, Clear Creek-Amana returned nearly all the removed books to the shelves. Clear Lake reshelved 25, and West Burlington reshelved none. 

Districts that opted not to remove books listed several reasons. Some did not find any books they felt met the law's criteria. Others awaited official guidance from the Department of Education – which still hasn't come – or had not culled their collection before the injunction blocked enforcement.

The rising of book bans across America

Iowa is not alone in banning books. In the fall of the 2023-24 school year, Florida had banned 3,135 books and Wisconsin 481, according to a PEN America report . 

A March Des Moines Register/Mediacom Iowa Poll , showed half of Iowans felt the new law went too far.

Some Iowans such as Luke Newlan from New London have seen their opinions change as Iowa's schools began to ban classic books. Previously, Newlan, an Iowa Poll respondent, believed the new law was just right.

Now, the father of four says many of the books being banned are no worse than what kids see on TV. The book ban feels like a ploy by politicians that wasn't passed out of any real concern, he said.

"These same books that were there when I was growing up are being pulled," Newlan said. "I think I'm fine. Our society is fine."

For other parents, the ban could go further. Iowa Poll participant Michaela Caston of Bonaparte said the book ban does not go far enough and school materials should be appropriate for all students who might access them. Caston and her husband have homeschooled each of their four children.

She stressed banning a book or content does not equate to burning a book.

“If we’re going to err, I think it is healthy to err on the side of caution and protection,” Caston said. ”Parents are always allowed and free to find additional reading resources for their own children.”

The federal government has made no move to intervene in state book bans, and it has no plans to do so.

The U.S. Department of Education will not "influence, promote (or) dictate curriculum," Education Secretary Miguel Cardona told the Register during the National Education Writers Association's conference in Las Vegas last month.

"Because we don't have a role in the curriculum, we are engaging through our Office for Civil Rights to provide supports for our districts … and inform districts of what their rights are," Cardona said.

Students need to feel seen and welcomed in schools, he said. They also need to see themselves reflected in teaching materials.

"We have the opposite happening," Cardona said. "We have books that have Black protagonists being banned at a higher rate. So, we're going backwards on that."

Activism leads to book ban law, which is blocked in court

Moves to ban controversial books from Iowa schools are not new.  

But in 2021, divisive book challenges and bans took a high-profile turn in the Des Moines metro and nationwide, as conservative activists and politicians organized over what they called inappropriate material for children. 

“We can see the way the book-banning movement continues to escalate and continues to speed up,” said Kasey Meehan, the Freedom to Read director at PEN America. “It is really affecting thousands of books.”  

In April 2023, Iowa’s Republican legislators passed Senate File 496 in response to activists' concerns. The book ban took effect July 1, 2023.

In November 2023, LGBTQ+ advocacy group Iowa Safe Schools and publisher Penguin Random House filed lawsuits in federal court to challenge the law, resulting in an injunction in December 2023.

In response, Gov. Kim Reynolds said it should not be controversial to protect children from sexually explicit content and pornography.

"The real controversy is that it exists in elementary schools. Books with graphic depictions of sex acts have absolutely no place in our schools," Reynolds said. "If these books were movies, they’d be rated R."

Reynolds' office has not responded to the Register's repeated requests to specify which books and elementary schools she was referring to.

The state has appealed the injunction, and a hearing is scheduled for June 11 in St. Paul, Minnesota.  

Sara Hayden Parris, president of Annie’s Foundation , a Johnston-based group that opposes book bans , is anxious about what could happen if the law is upheld in court.

“It’s such a slippery slope. That’s what worries me," Hayden Parris said.

Has there been a chilling effect? Was it self-imposed?

Experts say the law has created a chilling effect among people deciding what literature is used in the classroom.   

The law has prompted some districts to exercise extra caution to make sure they're in compliance, including Urbandale , which said it needed to take a broad interpretation to protect educators from disciplinary action.

To make their choices, districts leaned on librarians, education organizations, book summaries, Area Education Agencies, the Register’s own reporting on banned books and, in at least two cases, artificial intelligence to try to determine which books they needed to cull.

Last August, Bridgette Exman Dunn, assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction at Mason City Community School District, found herself at the center of the national debate over book bans when she used ChatGPT to try to identify whether books contained explicit sexual acts .

Once the school year was underway, Exman Dunn noticed staff were communicating more about the books being used because they want families to know “we're not hiding anything from you – that this is a process that we want you to be involved in and engaged in and that your voice matters,” she said.

Butler Abry: No 'crystal ball' to see long-term effects of law

The long-term effects of Senate File 496 continue to concern advocates as the case makes its way through federal court.

"I already feel that we're not fully sure what the long-term effects are, obviously, because we don't have a crystal ball," Butler Abry said. "But it has already made some titles taboo.

"I think it already has made (LGBTQ+) students feel ostracized … like their state doesn't care about them, or they've done something wrong if they want to read a book like that."

The Register's findings showed that districts were inconsistent about pulling books with LGBTQ+ content – some did, while others left them on the shelves.

Educators say LGBTQ+ children and teens need to know that they are supported, which includes being able to read about themselves.

Related: SEL teaches kids to deal with their emotions. It's under attack as 'woke' indoctrination.

In the meantime, the fight over Senate File 496 is taking a toll on some like Butler Abry.

At the end of the 2023-34 school year, she took a step back from her career as a school librarian, which she hopes is temporary. Butler Abry has, however, decided not to give up on the fight against banning books.

"I love that I get to help defend student rights and still also do what's right for me and take a break right now."

Contributing: Alia Wong

Samantha Hernandez covers education for the Register. Reach her at (515) 851-0982 or [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter at  @svhernandez  or Facebook at  facebook.com/svhernandezreporter .

Chris Higgins covers the northern and eastern suburbs for the Register. Reach him at [email protected] or 515-423-5146 and follow him on Twitter  @chris_higgins_ .  

Tim Webber is a data visualization specialist for the Register. Reach him at [email protected], and on Twitter at  @HelloTimWebber .  

Phillip Sitter covers the western suburbs for the Des Moines Register. Phillip can be reached via email at [email protected] or on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @pslifeisabeauty.    

F. Amanda Tugade covers social justice issues for the Des Moines Register. Email her at  [email protected]  or follow her on Twitter  @writefelissa . 

Kyle Werner is a reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach him at [email protected].

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Santa Barbara Education Foundation Gives 5,500 Books to Elementary School Students

Foundation’s Open Books Project Partners with Carpinteria Bookstore Owner to Strengthen Literacy in Community

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Children in the Santa Barbara Unified School District received 5,500 books in an act to further foster and strengthen literacy in the community. 

The Santa Barbara Education Foundation (SBEF) in partnership with Louis Torres, founder of Lantern Tree Books in Carpinteria, distributed the books to students from kindergarten through 3rd grade, continuing the efforts of the district’s new literacy curriculum for the 2023-2024 fiscal year.

The SBEF accumulated over $83,000 for the Open Books Project — the foundation’s initiative to get more books out to children in the district in order to improve literacy rates. Founded in 1985, the foundation promotes private support of Santa Barbara’s public education system, serving more than 12,500 students in 21 schools across the school district.

The Love of Literacy luncheon in September 2023 granted SBEF over $49,000 in proceeds, as well as additional revenue from individual donors following the event, according to Melissa Davenport, development officer for SBEF.

Although not all proceeds for the project were used, the foundation is looking to invest the rest in community engagement for literacy, Davenport said. 

The Open Books Project launched at the beginning of this year, with the initial goal of raising enough money to provide 2,500 books, one for every young student. The project successfully fundraised enough to provide two books for each student, according to Pedro Paz, executive director of SBEF.

The first wave of book distribution occurred in March at McKinley Elementary School, and the last handouts in May at Roosevelt Elementary School.  

“I didn’t even realize how rewarding it would be, handing books to kids,” Torres said, who attended the Roosevelt distribution. 

Torres’s childhood was filled with all things literature. Born in Santa Barbara, Torres shared a special connection with the city and said he aims to join Santa Barbara’s Library Board. 

The books were chosen from Torres’s Lantern Tree Books based on direct teacher requests, as well as the inclusion of multilingual works for further accessibility.

“I knew it would be a rewarding project, I love to read [and] to see kids read,” Torres said.

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The Unique Burial of a Child of Early Scythian Time at the Cemetery of Saryg-Bulun (Tuva)

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Pages:  379-406

In 1988, the Tuvan Archaeological Expedition (led by M. E. Kilunovskaya and V. A. Semenov) discovered a unique burial of the early Iron Age at Saryg-Bulun in Central Tuva. There are two burial mounds of the Aldy-Bel culture dated by 7th century BC. Within the barrows, which adjoined one another, forming a figure-of-eight, there were discovered 7 burials, from which a representative collection of artifacts was recovered. Burial 5 was the most unique, it was found in a coffin made of a larch trunk, with a tightly closed lid. Due to the preservative properties of larch and lack of air access, the coffin contained a well-preserved mummy of a child with an accompanying set of grave goods. The interred individual retained the skin on his face and had a leather headdress painted with red pigment and a coat, sewn from jerboa fur. The coat was belted with a leather belt with bronze ornaments and buckles. Besides that, a leather quiver with arrows with the shafts decorated with painted ornaments, fully preserved battle pick and a bow were buried in the coffin. Unexpectedly, the full-genomic analysis, showed that the individual was female. This fact opens a new aspect in the study of the social history of the Scythian society and perhaps brings us back to the myth of the Amazons, discussed by Herodotus. Of course, this discovery is unique in its preservation for the Scythian culture of Tuva and requires careful study and conservation.

Keywords: Tuva, Early Iron Age, early Scythian period, Aldy-Bel culture, barrow, burial in the coffin, mummy, full genome sequencing, aDNA

Information about authors: Marina Kilunovskaya (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Vladimir Semenov (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Varvara Busova  (Moscow, Russian Federation).  (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences.  Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Kharis Mustafin  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Technical Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Irina Alborova  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Biological Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Alina Matzvai  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected]

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• The Education Gradebook

3 Florida moms sue for right to challenge school book bans

• Jeffrey S. Solochek Times staff

The big story: Three Florida parents say the Florida Department of Education and the State Board of Education violated their First Amendment rights with rules that allow some but not all Floridians to seek a state review of school district decisions on book challenges.

The rule allows any parent who challenges a book to request a magistrate if the district keeps that book on the shelves. It does not permit the same for parents who object to their district’s removal of the book.

“This unfairly favors certain viewpoints and cuts out parents who disagree with that viewpoint,” said Stephana Ferrell, cofounder of Florida Freedom to Read Project. “It’s just another way we are tipping the scales in favor of censorship.”

Ferrell, an Orange County mom of two school-aged children, joined two St. Johns County parents to sue the state in federal court over its implementation of HB 1069, a controversial 2023 law that established the special magistrate process. Read the complaint here .

She said that initially, it seemed as if all parents would be placed on equal footing for access to the state review of local decisions. As rule making began, though, it became clear that parents who want to keep books in school libraries would be excluded , she continued.

Ferrell tested the process in Orange County, when she asked for a state magistrate to review her district’s removal of the book “Shut Up!” She was told the law provided only for those who disagree with the use of certain titles, not for those who disagree with no longer using the titles.

“It shouldn’t be so hard to advocate as a parent,” Ferrell said. Read more from News Service of Florida , Tallahassee Democrat , Politico Florida .

Charter schools: Some Pasco County parents are fighting a plan for a specialty charter high school in their community. At least one school board member is taking their side.

Finances: Madison County school district officials denied accusations that the district’s fund balance had dipped below state-required minimums, the Madison County Carrier reports.

Parental involvement: Florida education commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. told a conservative podcast that parents must get more involved in their children’s schooling to keep schools “in check” from promoting “radical ideologies,” Daily Signal reports.

School board elections: A fourth candidate has emerged to challenge incumbent Brevard County school board member Matt Susin, Florida Today reports.

School maintenance: Families at one Miami-Dade County school are upset because the school has not had regular working air conditioning , WTVJ reports.

Senior pranks: The last days of the school year often include senior pranks. At one Volusia County high school, the latest one involved toilet paper and spray paint. The Daytona Beach News-Journal takes a look at some of the district’s more memorable pranks .

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Start times: Palm Beach County parents had questions and concerns about all three district proposals to shift school schedules to comply with state law, WPTV reports. Districts have until fall 2026 to make it so high schools do not begin classes before 8:30 a.m. Some Palm Beach school board members called the law “unnecessary,” WPEC reports.

Superintendents: Sarasota County superintendent Terry Connor is poised to get a contract extension from his board, the Herald-Tribune reports. • The Duval County School Board offered superintendent-select Christopher Bernier a contract for significantly less than what he requested , after members of the public objected to his proposal, WJXT reports. • Putnam County superintendent Rick Surrency has drawn a second challenger in his reelection bid, the Palatka Daily News reports.

Don’t miss a story. Here’s a link to yesterday’s roundup .

Before you go ... Check out this 5-year-old’s mad skills. He’s from Sopchoppy, Florida.

Jeffrey S. Solochek is an education reporter covering K-12 education policy and schools. Reach him at [email protected].

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40 Facts About Elektrostal

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 01 Jun 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy , materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes , offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development .

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy , with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Elektrostal's fascinating history, vibrant culture, and promising future make it a city worth exploring. For more captivating facts about cities around the world, discover the unique characteristics that define each city . Uncover the hidden gems of Moscow Oblast through our in-depth look at Kolomna. Lastly, dive into the rich industrial heritage of Teesside, a thriving industrial center with its own story to tell.

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Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

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'Nineteen Minutes,' 'The Handmaid's Tale,' 'Crank' among the 10 most banned books in Iowa

Part of a continuing series in the Des Moines Register’s Iowa’s Book Ban Battle project.  

Was your favorite book banned in Iowa's schools?

The Des Moines Register pursued an exclusive investigation to track the impact of Senate File 496, a 2023 education law that requires library materials to be "age-appropriate" and bans most books depicting sex acts from Iowa schools. The sweeping law also restricts curriculum about sexual orientation and gender identity through sixth grade.

The Register documented nearly 3,400 book removals due to the law, which included about 1,000 unique book titles; 335 titles were removed in more than one school district.

Ten books stood out at the top of the list after being removed in dozens of schools across the state: popular coming-of-age stories, renowned American literary novels, controversial bestsellers and more.

The top two books — "Nineteen Minutes" by Jodi Picoult and "Looking for Alaska" by John Green — were both removed in more than 70 school districts. Picoult and Green are now suing the state over Senate File 496 after their books were banned.

More: John Green, Toni Morrison, Jodi Picoult, Colleen Hoover among most banned authors in Iowa

The state cannot enforce the law's book and curriculum restrictions during two pending lawsuits due to a judge's injunction. After the judge's decision, some districts decided to restore the books they had removed.

The 10 most banned books in Iowa since Senate File 496 appear to have been flagged for their sexual content, including scenes where characters have sex or with depictions of rape. They are:

1. 'Nineteen Minutes' by Jodi Picoult

What it's about — "Nineteen Minutes" tracks the events leading up to and the fallout from a fatal shooting at a high school in New Hampshire at the hands of a 17-year-old student who suffered physical and verbal abuse from his classmates. The shooter's former best friend, Josie, who witnessed the massacre, ostensibly can't remember the incident, while the shooter's parents consider how their past actions after a tragic accident may have played a role. A trial soon reveals divisions between the town's adults and students and rips relationships apart.

Number of school districts that removed the book — 77

Number of districts that later reshelved the book after injunction — 22

Related: What to know about the 9 most challenged books in Iowa schools, from 'Tricks' to 'Lawn Boy'

2. 'Looking for Alaska' by John Green

What it's about — A 16-year-old boy named Miles, who is obsessed with famous last words, leaves his safe life at home for boarding school in this coming-of-age young adult novel. Miles becomes infatuated with a female classmate named Alaska, who later dies, and Miles and his friends seek details about her final day as they process her death and wrestle with the meaning of life.

Number of school districts that removed the book — 76

Number of districts that later reshelved the book after injunction — 25

3. 'Sold' by Patricia McCormick

What it's about — Lakshmi is a 13-year-old girl living in a small hut in the mountains of Nepal with her family. After a monsoon sweeps away the family’s crops, her stepfather tells the teen she must leave home and take a job. Lakshmi — thinking she will be a maid for a rich woman — finds herself at a brothel and learns she must stay until her family’s debt is paid. Over time, she teaches herself to read and write in English. Eventually, she meets an American who is investigating the brothel's owners.

Number of school districts that removed the book — 62

Number of districts that later reshelved the book after injunction — 16

4. 'Thirteen Reasons Why,' by Jay Asher

What it's about — After her death, a high school student named Hannah Baker leaves behind tapes that detail the 13 reasons why she decided to die by suicide and unfold the events that preceded her death. Her former classmate Clay, who had a crush on Hannah, listens to the tapes, which reveal Hannah was a victim of sexual assault and faced bullying and harassment.

Number of school districts that removed the book — 60

Number of districts that later reshelved the book after injunction — 21

5. 'The Perks of Being a Wallflower,' by Stephen Chbosky

What it's about — Charlie, a teenage wallflower who is introverted and shy, writes letters to an anonymous "Dear Friend" as he details his struggle after a friend's suicide and a family member's death and documents his transition into high school. The teen befriends his classmates, and he develops a crush and experiments with alcohol and drugs. The novel explores sexuality, mental health and abuse as Charlie learns his friends' secrets and discovers repressed memories from his past.

Number of school districts that removed the book — 55

Number of districts that later reshelved the book after injunction — 17

6. 'The Kite Runner,' by Khaled Hosseini

What it's about — Amir, a privileged boy from Afghanistan, comes of age during a time of violent political upheaval in his country's history. He is friends with Hassan, who is the son of his father's servant and who also lost his mother. Amir later witnesses Hassan's sexual assault. Amir carries his guilt over his reaction into adulthood as he and his father escape to the United States and he becomes a novelist while seeking redemption.

Number of school districts that removed the book — 52

Number of districts that later reshelved the book after injunction — 14

7. 'Crank,' by Ellen Hopkins

What it's about — Kristina, an honors students in high school, becomes addicted to meth, which she calls "the monster," while visiting her absent father. Kristina's addiction devastates her life as she faces a downward spiral and later becomes a victim of sexual assault. The novel, which is written in experimental poetic verse, is loosely based on Hopkins' daughter's struggle with addiction.

Number of school districts that removed the book — 49

More: Iowa book ban's toll: 3,400 pulled books, including '1984' and 'To Kill a Mockingbird'

8. 'The Handmaid's Tale,' by Margaret Atwood

What it's about — Radical Christian terrorists stage a coup and take over the United States, turning the country into a repressive dictatorship known as Gilead during a time of environmental havoc and low birth rates. Women are oppressed, and those who can still have children are forced to become handmaids and carry babies for Gilead's rulers. The novel is the account of a handmaid called Offred, who falls into the dark underbelly of Gilead and discovers the resistance movement.

Number of school districts that removed the book — 48

9. 'Identical,' by Ellen Hopkins

What it's about — Identical twin sisters Kaeleigh and Raeanne, who have influential and high-profile parents, seem to have a perfect life on the surface, but dark secrets run underneath. One sister is a victim of sexual assault, and both fall into destructive behavior as they try to cope with their pain and struggle. Like "Crank," Hopkins' other novel on the list, "Identical" is written in experimental poetic prose and alternates between the twins' viewpoints.

10. 'The Color Purple,' by Alice Walker

What it's about — Celie, a Black teenager from Georgia in the early 1900s who lives in poverty, writes letters to God. Her father sexually assaults her, and Celie is later trapped in an abusive marriage and separated from her family. She later develops a close relationship with a blues singer named Shug Avery as the novel tells the story of Black women whose lives are intertwined in the face of struggle and oppression.

Number of school districts that removed the book — 46

Chris Higgins covers the eastern suburbs for the Register. Reach him at [email protected] or 515-423-5146 and follow him on Twitter  @chris_higgins_ .

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Elektrostal

Elektrostal Localisation : Country Russia , Oblast Moscow Oblast . Available Information : Geographical coordinates , Population, Altitude, Area, Weather and Hotel . Nearby cities and villages : Noginsk , Pavlovsky Posad and Staraya Kupavna .

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