Dickie Bell bill would require public schools to teach science ‘controversies’

Legislation proposed by Staunton Del. Dickie Bell would require school boards in Virginia to “find effective ways to present scientific controversies in science classes.”

From Bell’s House Bill 207:

“The Board [of Education] and each local school board, division superintendent, and school board employee shall create an environment in public elementary and secondary schools that encourages students to explore scientific questions, learn about scientific evidence, develop critical thinking skills, and respond appropriately and respectfully to differences of opinion about scientific controversies in science classes.”

A former Augusta County school teacher, Bell told the Daily Press in Newport News that his bill is aimed at protecting teachers from disciplinary action if people don’t like the way they respond to questions about scientific theories.

He told the paper that since the state does not require that teachers present alternatives to the theory of evolution, “introducing them into instructional discussion would not seem appropriate.”