An assistant principal in Mississippi was terminated after reading the children’s book I Need a New Butt! to a second-grade class, a decision that sparked significant debate. Toby Price stepped in as a guest reader when the scheduled reader failed to appear via Zoom on March 2. After receiving approval from his supervisor to read, Price chose the book, a favorite of his that features a boy’s amusing quest to find a new butt after discovering a crack in his own. “It’s just a fun, silly book,” he remarked during an interview, noting that he had previously read it without any backlash.
The book, authored by Dawn McMillan and illustrated by Ross Kinnaird, is aimed at young children who enjoy lighthearted humor. The premise is simple: a young boy notices a significant issue—his butt has a large crack—and embarks on a whimsical adventure to find a replacement. The playful narrative and entertaining illustrations are designed to engage children and elicit giggles.
However, following the reading, Price was summoned to the principal’s office and placed on administrative leave. On March 4, he received a termination letter citing “failure to demonstrate conduct that follows generally recognized professional standards” and for allegedly causing unnecessary embarrassment to students.
The community has rallied in support of Price, with parents and former pupils contesting his dismissal. He has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to assist with legal fees and family expenses, stating, “I am just looking for some help to pay bills while I look for another job. I have two kids with autism and another with BPD.”
This incident is part of a growing trend of book bans, often targeting literature that addresses complex issues such as systemic racism or sexual orientation. Price commented on the stressful environment teachers face today, saying, “They already have so much else to worry about… We really need to start advocating for teachers a lot more.”
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Summary
An assistant principal was fired for reading a humorous children’s book, I Need a New Butt!, to students. The decision has sparked community support and discussions on teacher advocacy, highlighting the growing trend of book bans in education.
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