Author visit gets canceled by superintendent in several Fairfield schools

The superintendent put out a statement with the decision to forgo Author Chad Sell's appearance.

Nicole Alarcon Soares

Jan 10, 2024, 3:36 AM

Updated 322 days ago

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Fairfield school officials canceled an upcoming author visit at several elementary schools.
The superintendent put out a statement with the decision to forgo Author Chad Sell's appearance.
The full statement:
I hope this message finds you well. I'm writing to address the recent cancellation of Author Chad Sell's elementary school visits, a topic that has garnered attention on social media and in the news.   I want to emphasize that the cancellation was not a result of bias or malintent as some have suggested. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion remains steadfast. Mr. Sell's books are integral parts of our library collections, available for anyone interested in exploring them. The decision to cancel the visit arose from feedback received from families, prompting us to reevaluate the suitability of the event for the intended age group.   Whenever we receive parent feedback, it's imperative that we take the time to thoroughly assess concerns and respond thoughtfully. Unfortunately, due to time constraints placed on the district to make a decision, we couldn't thoroughly address these concerns before the visit or book ordering deadline, which led to the cancellation.    Let me emphasize unequivocally that our district does not endorse book banning. We strongly support initiatives that nurture a love for reading and encourage creativity in our children. Our PTA groups and schools work diligently to curate experiences that are both enriching and inclusive for all students.   We remain dedicated to ensuring a diverse range of opportunities for our students while being attentive to community feedback. Your understanding and continued support in creating a conducive environment for learning and growth is greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Michael J. Testani FPS Superintendent of Schools