Former Norman teacher Summer Boismier fearing for her safety after classroom controversy

NORMAN, Okla. (KOKH) — A former Norman High School teacher is fearing for her safety amid a classroom controversy surrounding Oklahoma's ban on critical race theory, HB 1775.

On the first day of school at Norman High School, English teacher Summer Boismier shared a QR code with students directing them to a program through the Brooklyn Public Library providing free e-books, called "Books Unbanned."

She says she was placed on leave immediately after a parent complained. She has since resigned.

Police responded to her apartment for harassment complaints on Wednesday. Boismier told officers she has been receiving vulgar and threatening e-mails. Boismier also showed officers one e-mail that had her apartment number on it.

• ALSO SEE:Norman Public Schools parent says former teacher 'should have criminal charges'

In one message shared with FOX 25, someone told Boismier that she doesn't "deserve to live amongst us" and called her a "pedophile."

Boismier's saga has gained nationwide attention, and she's worried that people may show up at her apartment. She no longer feels safe returning home.

Police said they requested her address be listed for extra patrol and gave her a citizen's assistance form.

• ALSO SEE:Parents speak out against book banning, treatment of former Norman teacher

Oklahoma Education Secretary Ryan Walters has called for Boismier's teaching certificate to be revoked.

"There is no place for a teacher with a liberal political agenda in the classroom," Walters said in a letter earlier this week. "Ms. Boismier's providing access to banned and pornographic material to students is unacceptable and we must ensure she doesn't go to another district and do the same thing. This action must be dealt with swiftly and with respect to all our kids and parents."

Boismier said the threats began after Walters called for her certificate to be revoked and accused her of providing access to pornographic material.

In an interview with FOX 25's Wendy Suares, Boismier was asked why she shared the QR code.

"I understand that stories are important. Stories are a vital way that we as humans and we as a society understand ourselves and our place in that world," said Boismier. "It's vitally important that our students feel empowered, see themselves, reflected and validated. For too long, public education did not include those stories."

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