A Baton Rouge Magnet High senior is planning a protest to push for repeal of the Louisiana Science Education Act, which critics say can be used to promote creationism in schools. The rally, organized by student Zack Kopplin, is scheduled for today on the Capitol steps. Kopplin is the son of Andy Kopplin, the former head of the Louisiana Recovery Authority and current chief administrative officer for New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu. The Louisiana Science Education Act of 2008 allows public school science teachers to use supplemental materials in their classrooms beyond state-approved textbooks. Supporters say the law was designed to promote critical thinking and strengthen education. Opponents call it a veiled attempt to sneak religion into science classes. Sen. Karen Carter Peterson, D-New Orleans, has filed legislation to do away with the law. Zack Kopplin gathered signatures from more than 40 Nobel Prize–winning scientists, urging repeal. Gov. Bobby Jindal opposes Peterson’s bill.
Today’s poll question: Should the Legislature prevent public school science teachers from using supplemental materials in their classrooms, beyond state-approved textbooks?
