[R-G] Evolution classes optional under proposed Alberta law

[Anthony Fenton]

http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2009/04/30/cgy-bill-evolution-law-alberta-classes-teachers.html?ref=rss

Evolution classes optional under proposed Alberta law
Last Updated: Thursday, April 30, 2009 | 6:09 PM ET

A controversial Alberta bill will enshrine into law the rights of  
parents to pull their children out of classes discussing the topics of  
evolution and homosexuality.

The new rules, which would require schools to notify parents in  
advance of "subject-matter that deals explicitly with religion,  
sexuality or sexual orientation," is buried in a bill that extends  
human rights to homosexuals. Parents can ask for their child to be  
excluded from the discussion.

"This government supports a very, very fundamental right and that is  
parental rights with respect to education," said Premier Ed Stelmach.

Although Stelmach has confirmed the bill will give parents the  
authority to exclude their kids from classes if the topic of evolution  
comes up, Education Minister Dave Hancock said it won't change anything.

"With respect to values, religion and sex education have always been  
areas of concern for parents, and they've always been areas parents  
have had the right to be notified about and to exempt their students  
from," Hancock said.
Debate over Alberta's international image

Frank Bruseker, the head of the Alberta Teachers' Association, is  
meeting with Hancock on Monday to raise his concerns.

"If parents don't want that kind of education for their children they  
have a couple of options," Bruseker said. "One would be home schooling  
or private school. So for a public school to start excluding based on  
religious preference, I think is a mistake."

     'All they've done is make Alberta look like Northumberland and  
sound like Arkansas.'— Brian Mason, Alberta NDP leader

Bruseker said it would be difficult for teachers to avoid the topic of  
evolution in science or geography classes.

The proposed legislation has touched off a debate about just what kind  
of image Alberta's government is trying to create around the world.

NDP Leader Brian Mason likened the bill to Alberta recently using a  
photo of a British beach in an ad to promote the province.

"This government just spent $25 million of taxpayers money to give  
Alberta a new image. All they've done is make Alberta look like  
Northumberland and sound like Arkansas," Mason said.

The new legislation could be passed within a few weeks.