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Oct 18
2009
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In case you didn't know, the Social Studies standards are about to change. In the coming weeks, the Texas Education Agency should release proposed changes which will be followed by a several month comment and review period before final changes are adopted in the Spring. To check on progress of the proposed changes, check out http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index2.aspx?id=3643 for the latest information. We'll also keep you updated here on the blog.
The most interested aspect of this progress revolves around which important figures and events should be included or left out in our history and social studies classes. The Fort Worth Star Telegram reports the following list that as of now, won't be taught in Texas' classrooms.
Colin Powell, removed with no explanation
Jonas Salk, replaced with creators of new technology
Louis Daguerre, replaced with creators of new technology
Nathan Hale, few age appropriate materials exist
Neil Armstrong, removal suggested by expert reviewer
Miriam Ferguson, questionable character
John Tower, questionable character
Henry Cisneros, questionable character
Florence Nightingale, British subject and not an American example
Carl Sagan, removed by expert reviewer
And who will be newly added:
Ross Perot
Steve Jobs
Todd Beamer
Thurgood Marshall
WASP pilots of World War II
Hector P. Garcia
Howard Hughes Sr.
James A. Baker
Michael DeBakey
Michael Dell
Any surprises?