An assistant principal from Byram, Mississippi was fired after reading a children's book to a group of second graders.
Toby Price, of Gary Road Elementary School, was let go after reading I Need A New Butt, a book with a recommended age range of 6 years to 10 years, by New Zealand author Dawn McMillan.
In a March 7 Facebook post, Price confirmed his firing, saying he was terminated for "reading an awesome book to kids."
He wrote:
"Was recently fired for reading I Need a New Butt, to students."
"It’s a funny silly book. A book that kids love."
When asked about the incident, Price said:
“I didn’t think twice about reading it because I’ve never had an issue with it before."
“There are other books that have much more suggestive material that are much more widely accepted.”
You can see local news coverage here:
People familiar with the book were surprised by the school's reaction.
Price said his termination came "without warning."
Price said to WJTV News:
"I was very upset, I'm not going to lie."
"I did what I could to dry my face up."
Meanwhile, Joe Dillard, the former assistant principal's attorney, suggested this is a state-wide problem in Mississippi.
He said:
"There is a problem in the state in particular with respecting the rights of teachers to speak out."
Price is set to appear in a public hearing before the school board to appeal his termination.
Price set up a Go Fund Me to help his family with rent, food and legal bills.
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