Letter to the Editor:

Seventh graders at DMS and DeKalb West School have been taught misleading information. The textbooks these students used implied that the Islamic religion promotes tolerance and co-existence with other faiths. Nothing could be farther from the truth. In many countries for a long time, Christians and other religions denominations haven’t been allowed to safely worship.

About a month ago, I was loaned the textbook our seventh graders had used. This textbook is published by Pearson and the title is The Middle Ages to the Exploration of the Americas. I thoroughly analyzed the content our students had studied. Definitely, the material learned didn’t accurately explain the Islamic faith.

You justifiably ask, "What qualifies me to make such an evaluation?" I’d previously read material documenting worldwide persecution Christians have suffered during the last fifteen years. Prior to this learning experience, I’d studied the impact Sharia Law has upon non-Muslims.

Very soon, I’m planning to again visit education leaders of our county.

They’re already quite aware that false material was presented in seventh-grade classrooms. The error of purchasing and placing this textbook in classrooms must be undone.

Certainly, immediate removal of the textbook from our schools is merited. As a taxpaying citizen in our democratic society, you have a right to review a copy of the textbook. Since the school year will be ending shortly, such a request should be granted. We should also encourage these educators to send an apologetic letter to the parents or guardians of the seventh graders affected by this situation.

Thanks,

George Sperry

Smithville