For years, the state of Alabama has had the incredibly dubious distinction of being the only state in the country that requires textbooks for students to carry a “warning label” about evolution. The label warns students that evolution–i.e. science–is a “controversial theory.” Take a look at this thing:
Now, however, for the first time in a decade, Alabama is updating its science standards for public schools, and that means students will finally get some real instruction on evolution. State officials told the media the following:
“The new rules — part of a major change that includes more experimentation and hands-on instruction and less lecturing — don’t require that students believe in evolution or accept the idea that climate is changing globally. But public school students will be required for the first time to understand the theory of evolution. And teachers will be required to address climate change, which wasn’t a focus the last time the state set science standards in 2005.”
So kinda-sorta, but not exactly. I guess Alabama wants to try and teach some science, but not so much that someone might get offended. Imagine being offended by the facts!
Here’s the preface that will now appear in science texts:
“The theory of evolution has a role in explaining unity and diversity of life on earth. This theory is substantiated with much direct and indirect evidence. Therefore, this course of study requires our students to understand the principles of the theory of evolution from the perspective of established scientific knowledge. The committee recognizes and appreciates the diverse views associated with the theory of evolution.”
Science teacher Ryan Reardon said he’s glad to see the new approach to evolution:
“Talking about evolution in a classroom is controversial, but there is no controversy about how all the organisms on the planet are related to each other.”
However, the reaction from the more extreme segments of the state has been swift and predictably ignorant:
Oh well, at least the kids in Alabama will be more informed than they have been. Now if only we could share some of that knowledge with the parents.
