(Answer to Mr Priest's op-ed, Charleston Gazette, Sat 8/11/12)
I find irony in Mr Priest's complaint about the state of science education in public schools when he cannot accept the reality, the fact, that evolution is the founding principle of all the biological sciences. For an explanation of part of public education's recent failures he need look no farther than attempts by religionists who have undermined curricula in not just science education but history and civics as well.
A well-informed public is necessary for democracy to work and that begins with school. It is, therefore, government's duty to insure a quality education for all. Eliminating public schools is counter to that mandate. Private schools do not have to accept students nor are they necessarily accountable for teaching misinformation. Money is better spent on making sure there are quality educators in schools open to all who value factual information instead of sectarian dogma.
While West Virginian schools may not have rankings worthy of a proud Mountaineer tradition, it seems obvious to me that Mr Priest's exit from teaching is a positive sign. Schools need dedicated teachers, not disinforming ideologues.
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