On Wednesday, the Florida Education Association teachers’ union leader criticized the State Board of Education for not reversing the course on a controversial history standard that had been approved last year.
The board, meeting in Miami, signed off on some changes to social studies standards for public schools.
However, the changes did not revise a sixth-grade Black history standard that drew backlash because of a slavery-related issue when it was approved last summer.
Read: Ex-City Attorney In Florida Can Face Fraud Lawsuit
The backlash centered on a standard that says, “Instruction includes how slaves developed skills which, in some instances, could be applied for their personal benefit.”
FEA President Andrew Spar on Wednesday criticized the standard remaining part of the larger instructional guidelines.
“That is a concern, as well as making sure that our students have a complete and honest history around both the African American experience and all experiences in our country,” Spar said.
He urged members of the board to talk with teachers across the state about the standards.
Read: Florida Senate, Byrd Push Back In Redistricting Fight
Board Vice Chairman Ryan Petty argued that rules and standards approved by the board are crafted with input from educators.
“The notion that we’re not out engaged with educators and engaged with teachers in developing these rules is a false notion,” Petty said.
Help support the Tampa Free Press by making any small donation by clicking here.
Android Users, Click To Download The Tampa Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook and Twitter. Sign up for our free newsletter.