Monday, May 20, 2013

The latest local news, weather and high school sports in and around Columbia and Jefferson City

Missouri House panel considers evolution teaching bill
Posted: 02.21.2013 at 5:26 AM
0
Missouri House panel considers evolution teaching bill  / File
Photo

JEFFERSON CITY, MO. (AP) -- Public schools would be required to teach the strengths and weaknesses of the scientific theory of evolution under a bill being considered by a Missouri House committee.

The House Elementary and Secondary Education Committee heard testimony Wednesday on a measure that would require state officials to develop guidelines for teaching evolution in public schools.

Supporters said the measure would empower teachers and help students develop critical thinking skills. A Democrat on the committee said he was concerned the bill would open "Pandora's box" and lead to having religion taught in public schools.

The measure is sponsored by Republican Rep. Andrew Koenig, of St. Louis. The committee did not vote on the proposal.

(Copyright ©2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Popular Stories
Thumbnail
Columbia man dead in overnight shooting
Juliette Dryer  |  Yesterday at 3:20 PM  |  4 comments
Thumbnail
Severe storms possible Sunday through Tuesday
Jessica Troike  |  Saturday, May 18, 2013  |  1 comment
Thumbnail
60-year-old woman hospitalized after stabbing
Juliette Dryer  |  Yesterday at 2:53 PM