From O.P. To The Big Apple

Solo;

Thanks for the link. What a great story. I don't know how much they are paying this teacher but whatever it is, it isn't enough.

Can you imagine what a great science program we could have in Clay County with about 20 more just like him? Heck even 10 would be a good thing. 

Mike Heemer

Mike,

Glad you enjoyed it.  I had the good fortune to hear Mr. Campbell back in January, I think, at the CC school board meeting when the evolution issue came up.  I can only imagine what he feels like trying to teach under these conditions, especially given the statistics @ the sorry state of science education, not only in Clay & Florida, but other states in the nation.

I thought the story was definitely interesting, not only for what it said, but for what it didn't say.  I'm sure that the student, Bryce Haas, was not alone, either in this class, but in classes across the nation, who has been raised with that particular Christian teaching.  But I doubt that any of them actually had full appreciation of what was going on.  It was the free exchange of information, doubting, questioning, researching in the quest of learning.  This was not only allowed, but ENCOURAGED in an open & free atmosphere without fear of some avenging boogeyman or the threat of retribution in the afterlife if one did not accept what was put before them.  That's science.  That's learning.

I also feel some sorrow for the kids who grow up in an atmosphere like this.  They are being torn apart in two directions & their collective futures depends on making a rational choice.  That's got to be tough on a kid.  I wish them, Mr. Campbell & science education the best of luck.  They will all need it.  JATFUR.

Rich K 

David Campbell has been a part of the Ridgeview community dating back to the days of Ridgeview Jr. High. My daughter had Mr. Campbell @ RJHS and RHS and credtis him for her love of science (she is currently working on her PhD). In addition to his outstanding work in the classroom, Mr. Campbell was an ardent supporter of extra-curricular activities at RHS, frequently photographing events on his own time.

Regarding the arguments made regarding the teaching of evolution; Remember evolution is a theory. Theories have been proven and dis-proven over time. I have no problem with evolution being taught as a theory, as long as there is balanced discussion of both sides of the issues.

FR88,

Everything that I've ever heard about Mr. Campbell has been glowingly positive.  One of my points is that in this day & age, I find it deplorable that a teacher who should be encouraged & cherished, is, in effect, hindered for all the wrong reasons.  Our educational system needs more people like Mr. Campbell & if we get them, we shouldn't shackle them.

On evolution.  It always has been, & still is, called a theory, no more no less.  It is only one segment of our society, elements of the religious right, who have fabricated an issue on this by their shouts of, "It's ONLY a theory," "there are gaps," & "science can't explain everything."  Science itself has said from the begining that it is only a theory & nothing more.  Science has been the first to say that there are gaps & that they couldn't explain everything. 

But those elements of the religious right know quite well that there are those within their ranks that will succumb to these kinds of scare tactics simply because they refuse to think the situation through clearly, in a rational manner.  But to have the process of science education shackled in such a manner, especially considering the ramifications, for nothing more than a religious belief is a national disgrace.  JATFUR.

Rich K