Countywide : Volunteers Sought to Review Textbooks

State education officials are looking for people interested in reviewing the social content of textbooks and other instructional materials that may be used in California classrooms.

Volunteers will work at least one weekend in May reviewing mathematics textbooks and other materials for compliance with social content requirements of the state education code and guidelines established by the State Board of Education.

“Textbook review is an opportunity to broaden public awareness and participation in reviewing instructional resources before they are evaluated professionally and used in California schools,” said William D. Dawson, acting state superintendent of public instruction. “Those selected to serve will be examining instructional resources for depiction of male and female roles, cultural and racial diversity, and other social issues, including representation of older people and the aging process, and people with disabilities.”

Gaye Smoot, an Education Department spokeswoman, said the public review is performed under specific state guidelines. Participants are given detailed instructions on what constitutes a violation of the education code and most of their findings are enforced.

“This part of it is kind of pass or fail” for a textbook publisher, Smoot said. “Publishers do need to comply.”

A publisher can appeal the public panel’s findings to education department officials, who hold ultimate authority in such situations, Smoot said.

California is one of a few states that allow the public to participate in reviewing books and instructional materials considered for use in schools.

After the public’s review, the books and materials will be evaluated for educational content by a panel of mathematics teachers and mathematicians.

State officials are encouraging individuals “who represent California’s diverse population” to apply--including students over 18, all ethnic groups, adults of all ages and occupations, and people with disabilities.

Those interested should write the Curriculum Framework and Instructional Resources Office, California Department of Education, 560 J St., Room 290, Sacramento, Calif. 95814; or call (916) 445-2731. Applications are due by Feb. 15.