May 14, 2002
Eugenie C. Scott, Ph.D.
Executive Director
National Center for Science Education, Inc.
420 40th Street, Suite 2
Oakland, CA 94609-2509
Dear Dr. Scott:
Thank you for contacting me to share the concerns of the National Center for Science Education, Inc.
regarding the report language accompanying H.R. 1, now titled, the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB).
I am writing to express my views on the compromise language on science education that was agreed to by the
conferees.
As you are now aware, NCLB calls for states to implement annual assessments in the subjects of reading and math
during grades 3 through 8. The law also requires states to measure the proficiency of all students in science
starting with the 2007-2008 school year. To address the importance of these newly required assessments
in the area of science education, the conference committee included a compromise version of the Santorum
Amendment in report language:
The Conferees recognize that a quality science education should prepare students
to distinguish the data and testable theories of science from religious or
philosophical claims that are made in the name of science. Where topics are
taught that may generate controversy (such as biological evolution), the
curriculum should help students to understand the full range of scientific views
that exists, why such topics may generate controversy, and how scientific
discoveries profoundly affect society.
Quality assessments involve the application of critical thinking skills, and perhaps this is nowhere more
important than in science education. Teachers often encourage critical thinking through the introduction
of controversial issues. While the subject of evolution was used as an example of a controversial issue
in the report language, neither the teaching of evolution nor any other specific topic is mandated in
NCLB or the conference report. The law restricts the federal endorsement of curriculum, and the report
language should not be construed to promote specific topics within subject areas. Congress recognizes
that the teaching of the "full range of scientific views" should be encouraged, and such decisions
are best left to the scientific community, rather than legislators.
The purpose of the No Child Left Behind Act is to ensure that all children receive a quality education
with reading, math and science as its foundation. The report language correctly describes science as
a subject of "data and testable theories", different from "religious or philosophical claims." It is
critical that the effort to narrow the achievement gap not be burdened with ideology regardless of
subject matter. The language is profoundly clear that "science" should be at the center of a
quality science education.
Your interest in upholding academic excellence is science is appreciated. If I can be of further
assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Very truly yours,
[signature]
George Miller
Ranking Democrat