|
SB 2354 would create the Redefining Science in Elementary
Schools Task Force Act. The group would focus on identifying
age-appropriate anatomy, physiology, and nutrition education
materials at Illinois grade schools.
State Sen. Rachel Ventura, D-Joliet, explained the measure
Tuesday before the Senate Education Committee.
"The task force shall identify age-appropriate education to add
to the current curriculum for anatomy, physiology, and
nutrition," Ventura said. "This additional curriculum shall aim
to empower students with the knowledge to adequately identify
their own bodies."
Ventura said the state has not done as good of a job as it could
when teaching these subjects.
"Our current science system could do much better in teaching the
sciences, especially when it comes to our bodies, so that we can
have the information needed to make the best decisions for
ourselves.
State Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, said she worries this could
force schools to teach sex ed.
"My concern is this could be an end-run through JCAR [Joint
Committee on Administrative Rules] for force these schools who
choose not to teach the sex-ed standards, to have to teach
them," Rezin said.
Rezin says the measure may be too much for some conservative
belief systems.
"We have seen standards that have come through JCAR, that we're
seeing for the first time that is over and above what most of us
would support, in terms of a more progressive agenda," Rezin
said.
The measure was unanimously passed through the committee,
earning 11 "yes" votes. The legislation now awaits further
action.
Andrew Hensel reports on issues in Chicago and
Statewide. He has been with The Center Square News since April
of 2021 and was previously with The Joliet Slammers.
|
|
