To summarize things (http://www.cpr.org/news/story/jeffco-students-walk-out-again-over-proposed-history-curriculum-changes?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=FBCPR4079) a school board member has decided that current AP history is revisionist and negative/anti-American and suggested changes similar to what has been suggested in Texas:
"Materials should promote citizenship, patriotism, essentials and benefits of the free enterprise system, respect for authority and respect for individual rights. Materials should not encourage or condone civil disorder, social strife or disregard of the law. Instructional materials should present positive aspects of the United States and its heritage"
In response, hundreds of students have started skipping school to go and protest the proposed changes.
While it sounds like the changes have already been scrapped and I'm sure some students see it as just an excuse to get out of classes, I am nonetheless gladdened to see that the students care enough about what they are being taught to take action.
The supporters no doubt think the proposed changes are patriotic and therefore good, but where exactly is the line between patriotism and jingoism?
Any idea as to what they'll be calling the Revolutionary War?
Quote"Materials should promote citizenship, patriotism, essentials and benefits of the free enterprise system, respect for authority and respect for individual rights. Materials should not encourage or condone civil disorder, social strife or disregard of the law. Instructional materials should present positive aspects of the United States and its heritage"
Respect for authority: or always question authority? Promote citizenship, patriotism, benefits of free enterprise: or Republican ideals and bigotries? Encourage or condone civil disorder, social strife or disregard of the law: even when the law oppresses people and causes social strife against minorities and women? Forget about the past negative aspects like slavery and war crimes? Solitary
How about:
Henceforth, all teaching materials used in Colorado will accurately describe historical events, teach both good and bad aspects of free enterprise and how it can be corrupted by corporate and self serving political interests, to promote logical problem solving abilities, to critically examine government and examine solutions for fixing it.