public school

The Texas Freedom Network today released the following statement in response to an erroneous claim by Gov. Rick Perry about creationism in Texas public schools. Answering a young boy’s question while campaigning Thursday in New Hampshire, Gov. Perry said, "in Texas we teach both creationism and evolution in our public schools."

From TFN President Kathy Miller:

"Gov. Perry has once again waded into the culture wars for political gain, but without considering the harmful consequences. It is irresponsible for the leader of a state, or a presidential hopeful, to suggest to public school teachers that it is OK to teach creationism as science when such attempts have repeatedly been ruled unconstitutional by the courts, and could result in litigation against a school district. And it is outrageous that Gov. Perry would erode respect for and trust in public education in Texas, simply in order to promote his political aspirations. Texans and Texas schools are working to prepare our children for college and 21st-century jobs. Gov. Perry’s irresponsible comments wrongly suggest otherwise."

Many wish to promote ideas and views in our public schools that are counter to scientific data and fly in the face of reality. Others want a moment of silence. Still others want God or Jesus mentioned in regular prayer or reading from the Bible or all of the above. Which version of the Bible will be studied? Will other religious books be studied?