Conroe ISD removes book over gender, sexuality

**Conroe ISD Removes LGBTQ+-Inclusive Children’s Book Following Second Review**

Conroe, TX – The Conroe Independent School District has officially pulled the children’s book “It’s Not Easy Being the ‘Me’ in Meme: A Billie Jean Story” from all elementary library shelves, effective May 8. The decision follows a parental complaint and a subsequent review process that ultimately overturned an initial committee’s recommendation to keep the book.

Published in December 2023 by author Angela Cerkevich, the picture book centers on a non-binary character named Billie Jean, who uses they/them pronouns and lives with two moms and a supportive dad. It also features a friend who uses she/her pronouns and is described as “a girl who likes girls,” aiming to promote inclusivity and self-acceptance among young readers.

The controversy began in February when a parent filed a formal complaint, expressing concerns about the book’s exploration of “sexuality” and “gender fluidity” for children as young as four years old.

Initially, a committee of 14 Conroe ISD librarians and teachers reviewed the book in March. After deliberation, the committee voted 13-1 to retain the book within the district’s library system, deeming it both age-appropriate and relevant to the curriculum.

However, the situation shifted on April 11 when district staff, specifically Chief Academic Officer Kim D. Klepcyk and Chief of Schools Jennifer K. Taylor, requested a “formal review.” This request prompted the convening of a second committee, comprised of seven individuals, on April 16. This time, the committee voted 6-1 to remove the book from elementary libraries.

Superintendent Dr. Curtis Null publicly addressed the removal during a May 7 board meeting, confirming the book’s withdrawal by district staff. Dr. Null explained the district’s reasoning, stating, “The use of some language (e.g., ‘they/them,’ ‘she likes girls,’ ‘girl crush’) and the topics presented may be challenging for elementary-aged students to understand and may be better suited for an older audience.” He also clarified that, per district policy, the Superintendent holds the final authority in such matters.

Author Angela Cerkevich expressed her deep disappointment with the decision, reiterating that her intention in writing the book was to foster an environment of acceptance and understanding for all children, particularly those who may feel marginalized. “It’s disheartening to see a book designed to help children feel seen and included removed from shelves,” Cerkevich said in a statement, “especially when the initial review found it to be appropriate.”

Parental rights advocates, who often champion the removal of books addressing LGBTQ+ themes in schools, typically argue that such topics are best discussed within the family setting and are not suitable for young children in a public school environment.

Conversely, organizations advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and literary freedom often condemn such removals as censorship, arguing that diverse representation in literature is crucial for fostering empathy and ensuring all students see themselves reflected in stories. They contend that denying access to books featuring diverse family structures or identities can send a harmful message to LGBTQ+ youth and their allies.

This removal in Conroe ISD marks another instance in a broader, ongoing trend of book challenges and removals targeting LGBTQ+ themes in Texas school districts, reflecting a statewide and national debate over what content is deemed appropriate for public school libraries. Similar incidents have occurred in other Texas districts, highlighting increased scrutiny on library collections and educational materials.