LEXINGTON, Mass. -- A trial date has been set for David Parker, the Lexington, Mass., parent arrested after a dispute with his son's school principal over a book with a depiction of a gay family.

NewsCenter 5's Janet Wu reported that Parker's attorney said the trial may never start and he is negotiating with school officials.

Although Parker's court appearance was quick, supporters gathered outside the courthouse.

"There's a larger issue here locally and nationally and internationally about the role of family and what kind of encroachments government can make into children's and people's lives," said attorney Jeffrey Denner.

The dispute started last spring when a book was sent home with Parker's 5-year-old son as optional reading material to be shared with his parents. One page of the book depicted a gay family. After meeting with school officials, Parker refused to leave unless they agreed to notify him in the future if similar material is again offered to his son. He was arrested and banned from school property.

"We're very displeased that the school administration continues to bar my will and presence from all schools in Lexington. This includes meetings, places to vote, school committee meetings, parent-teacher meetings," said Parker.

"A 5-year-old who is coming to the classroom with two moms deserves to be in a classroom that includes books that show his family," said Laura Tully, a supporter of the Lexington School District.

Parker's trial date was set for Sept. 21, Denner said the trespassing case may soon be settled with the Lexington school.

"It's an issue that, basically, it is time to draw a line and decide who is in charge here," said Denner.

Meanwhile, the Parkers are sending their son back to the school next month.

"I told him his daddy is in charge and he smiled. That is all I'm prepared to say right now," said Parker.

Parker's attorney said he is likely to file a civil suit in federal court by this fall. He plans to sue the town of Lexington, the school system and its officials.

Neither school officials nor the Middlesex District Attorney's Office commented on the possible lawsuit or possible settlement.