Kansas Evolution Hearings

The Kansas Evolution Hearings were a series of discussions held in 2005 by the Kansas State Board of Education to review how evolution was being taught in schools. Concerned about the portrayal of evolution and potential inclusion of alternative concepts like intelligent design, members debated whether to modify science standards. The hearings involved scientists, educators, and citizens, highlighting differing views on science, religion, and education. Ultimately, the board agreed to update standards emphasizing critical thinking and including various scientific perspectives, sparking national attention and debates over science education, the teaching of evolution, and the role of religious ideas in science classrooms.