Mississippi Court Overturns Firing of Educator for Reading Children's Book

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The Mississippi Court of Appeals has overturned the firing of former Gary Road Elementary School assistant principal Toby Price, who was terminated in March 2022 for reading the children's book 'I Need a New Butt!' to a group of second graders during Read Across America Day. The court found the school district had no substantive reason to terminate Price, noting there were no parent or student complaints and that the school library contained books with similar or worse content.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing debate around censorship in schools and the appropriate boundaries for educators when it comes to reading material for students. The court's decision affirms that Price's actions did not warrant termination and raises questions about the school district's decision-making process.

The details

The Mississippi Court of Appeals ruled that the Hinds County School District had no valid reason to fire Price, finding the decision 'whimsical.' The court noted there were no complaints from parents or students, and that the school library contained books with similar or worse content than the one Price read. Price, who has been out of work for four years, is now eligible for reinstatement and back pay, though he is uncertain if he will return to the same school district that fired him.

• Price was terminated in March 2022.
• The Chancery Court upheld Price's firing in 2024.
• Oral arguments were heard by the Mississippi Court of Appeals in September 2025.
• The Mississippi Court of Appeals overturned Price's firing on January 27, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Price's attorney will meet with the Hinds County School District to negotiate details of his reinstatement and back pay. A Chancery Court hearing is expected to occur within approximately 30 days to finalize the settlement package.