Proposed science and humanities standards rejected by House committee

A pending rule covering new science and humanities standards is in limbo after members of the House Education Committee complained about the public input process surrounding the creation of the standards, Idaho EdNews reports. Committee Chairman Reed DeMordaunt, R-Eagle, led the effort to reject the rule in the House committee this morning, which covers numerous academic standards, including science standards pertaining to the age of the Earth, creation of the universe and global warming.

Members of the State Board of Education approved the pending rule containing the standards on Aug. 13, 2015, reports EdNews reporter Clark Corbin, and the public’s written comments were solicited and accepted through Oct. 28 of last year.

“It is my belief that this wasn’t done in the best way possible,” DeMordaunt told EdNews. “It doesn’t mean they weren’t good standards. But before we ever talk about content, we’ve got to be assured the process is open, transparent and invites the public participation.”

If the Senate Education Committee approves the rule, the standards can still be adopted. But if the Senate panel also rejects the rule, then it is dead for the session and existing standards will be unchanged during the 2016-17 school year, Corbin reports; you can read his full report here .