A recent forum for Alachua County school board candidates brought out the following tidbit:
Some of the candidates thought creationism has a place in public school education, with others saying it should be taught in a class that discusses theories or philosophies of all world religions. Some, though, said it belongs in church or at home.
“I am absolutely opposed to teaching creationism as science in our schools,” said Rick Nesbit, who is running for the District 1 seat. “I would absolutely safeguard the separation of church and state.”
Unfortunately, the newspaper article didn’t break down by name who believed what other than Mr. Nesbit. If anyone who is familiar with these candidates can fill us in, please do so in the comments. Meanwhile, I’ll also see what I can track down.
So far, known creationists in other school board races are John Tracy in Pasco, Terry Kemple in Hillsborough, Terry Pittman in Polk, and Ron Young in Palm Beach.
Got these notes from the reporter who covered the story re: gainesville school board.
Notes on teaching creationism
Goston – filling in for Bonnie – said it should be taught
April – I do believe we should teach creationism as part of a well-balanced education that opens their minds to free-thinking.
Felicia – In a well-balanced education, we need to have those things, as well, and leave it up to the parents to expound on it.
Rick – opposed
David – In a class that teaches all religions. Teach it all. Let them make up their minds – they can make an informed decision if they have the information.
Wayne – I think at a high school level, this is something that could be … present with all opinions out there and let them make up their minds.
Gunnar – I’m opposed to teaching creationism
Carol – supports separation of church and state
Chris – It has to be an historical aspect. “They†want to see it put alongside evolution. They don’t want to see the hard-core theories of atheism and theism.†(he was a philosophy major in college)
Rev. Milford – filling in for Jancie – She grew up in the church. She’s always had the highest respect for separation of church and state. She would not favor teaching creationism.
From: Susan Bergert [mailto:susan.bergert@cox.net]
Sent: Thursday, August 05, 2010 8:46 AM
To: Moore, Kimberly
Subject:
Hi Kimberly—
I’m writing to ask about your article on the forum of school board candidates at Oak Hammock published on August 1. Do you have notes on which candidates though creationism had a place in public schools? Could you share that with me? This is of interest to the members of my group, the Humanist Society of Gainesville.
Wow, thanks for doing that research! We appreciate it. It’s good to know who said what.