The Stillwater Area School District board meeting Tuesday drew extensive public comment regarding restricted access to LGBTQ+ books in elementary libraries, with community members divided on the appropriateness of the materials for young students.

The controversy centers on three books - "Call Me Max," "Granddad's Pride," and "Granddad's Camper" - that were recently restricted to require parental permission for elementary student checkout. Board Chair Sherman clarified that the district has not implemented a formal book challenge process, but rather conducted internal discussions about alignment with current policy.

Multiple speakers criticized the restrictions, arguing they violated established district procedures and sent harmful messages to LGBTQ+ students. Dr. Julia Conozeel, a pediatric neuropsychologist and district parent, testified that the developmental topics in "Call Me Max" are age-appropriate for elementary students, noting that children develop stable gender identity between ages 3-4.

Other community members supported the restrictions, with some speakers questioning whether the materials were appropriate for young children and emphasizing parental rights in educational decisions. The board did not engage in discussion with speakers during the public comment period.

Chair Sherman acknowledged the district's policies are outdated and announced plans to create Policy 606.5 specifically for media center materials selection and management. The policy committee will work to present the updated policy to the full board by April or May, with multiple opportunities for community feedback planned.