TALLAHASSEE – Representative Marti Coley (R-Marianna) urged the State Board of Education yesterday to resist efforts by evolution-only advocates who are attempting to re-write Florida’s curriculum to exclude scientific theories which compete with the theory of evolution.

“The book has not been closed on the debate surrounding the theory of evolution,” said Representative Coley. “As a teacher, I believe that when controversial topics like this arise in a science class, we should adopt standards that help our students understand and consider the full range of views that exist.”

“There is an aggressive and organized campaign by those who support evolution-only education. Those of us opposing those efforts are asking from the Board of Education to show restraint, and continue to refer to evolution as a theory” added Representative Coley. “I hope this can be handled through the Board of Education, but I am also exploring the option of filing legislation addressing this issue.

The State Board of Education will vote on the new curriculum standards on February 19. The final public hearing before that vote will take place February 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Hotel at Orlando International Airport.

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