The Associated Press
FEDERAL WAY — The release of a high school newspaper has been delayed because a school board candidate complained about a letter to the editor that criticized her policies.
The Nov. 1 edition of the Eagle Eye, Federal Way High School’s student paper, includes a letter on the opinion page that criticizes Karla Dyer’s attempts to ban books from Thomas Jefferson High School.
Dyer contends the letter advances her opponent’s campaign — in violation of state law prohibiting the use of public resources for campaigning.
"I can’t use public facilities to promote my cause," Dyer told The News Tribune of Tacoma. "You have to have it one way or the other."
Superintendent Tom Murphy delayed the distribution of the paper while the district consults the state Public Disclosure Commission.
Dyer’s complaint and Murphy’s decision infuriated some parents and students.
"I’m just so irritated by this whole thing I can hardly see straight," said Elizbeth Corder, whose son works at the paper. "These kids bust their cans to get this paper out. It isn’t campaigning against her. It’s talking about censorship in schools."
Corder’s son, Marshall Popham, said, "It’s my impression that she wants this to be held up until after Tuesday’s election."
Dyer has objected to the sexual content in several books, including works by Toni Morrison and Alice Walker. School board members ultimately decided to retain the books, while agreeing to provide an alternative Advanced Placement literature course.
Subsequently, Dyer announced her campaign for a school board seat. Her opponent is Earl Van Dorien.
English teacher Pam Ashe wrote the letter to the editor. Dyer said she was offered a chance to respond but declined because she thought it might violate campaign rules.
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