Georgia evolution flap prompts proposal
ATLANTA -- A short-lived plan to delete the word "evolution" from Georgia's science curriculum inspired lawmakers to propose new rules Monday for how the state decides what to teach in schools.
Some House Democrats proposed a bill to require a state curriculum that conforms to national standards. The bill's sponsor, Rep. Kathy Ashe, said the guidelines would prevent gaffes like the recent debate over evolution.
School Superintendent Kathy Cox, a Republican, had proposed a new science curriculum that would replace the word "evolution" with "changes over time." Cox reversed her position after a week of criticism from science teachers, college professors and others.
Republicans, who largely defended Cox's handling of the curriculum, argued that Ashe's bill is a power grab intended to give lawmakers more say over what's taught.
GOP Rep. Brooks Coleman said national standards should be encouraged but not required.
"Our curriculum should encompass national standards because our children are going to compete nationally, and we should encourage that," he said. "But you can run into trouble when you start mandating things."
Cox did not immediately respond to calls for comment on the proposed bill. The state Education Department is part of the executive branch, with an independently elected superintendent. Its board is appointed by the governor and ultimately approves or rejects curriculum plans.
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On the Net:
About Georgia's proposed curriculum: http://www.doe.k12.ga.us/curriculum/instruction/qcc/index.asp
