The Texas Academy of Science has published a statement concerning the teaching of creationism, intelligent design, and evolution in Texas public schools.
The statement is entitled "Texas Academy of Science Position Against the Inclusion of Creationism and Intelligent Design Concepts in the Science Curricula in Texas Schools" (pdf).
A few relevant quotes are reproduced below the fold.
"The purportedly competing "theories" explicated by creationists to displace the theory of evolution in the biological sciences are not based on an effective application of scientific methodologies, nor are they testable using established scientific methodologies."
"Texas science teachers have a finite amount of class time and textbook space in which to teach the many valid and foundational scientific concepts that enable students to become knowledgeable consumers, decision makers and voters. Inclusion of creationist or intelligent design concepts in science curricula would seriously diminish the effectiveness of science education by distracting teachers from covering an already overwhelming body of knowledge, and would consequently dilute student's understanding of scientifically valid concepts and theories."
"The hiring of TEA administrators and staff must be based on appropriate educational credentials and teaching experience for those individuals to conduct the agency's mission to educate the children of Texas. Texas's reputation is at stake and the country is watching."
posted by Jeremy Mohn
