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Dear fellow netters, Our latest challenge, inclusion of evolutionary theory in Biology classes, seems to be attracting the attention of the media so here is the situation, so far. The high school student who issued the challenge is appealing the superintendent's decision (following the committee's recommendation) to keep the Biology textbook. The student also challenged the introductory two minutes of Nova's " The Miracle of Life" video which via micophotography tracks human conception. The introductory part, however, states as fact rather than theory, the beginning of life from a single celled organism, spawned in the priordial sea. The committee thought that the lack of any mention that this is the prevailing scientific theory compromised the use of the video. They sought permission from the copyright holder, WGBH Educational Foundation, to edit the introduction but were denied permission to do so. Consequently, the video is being pulled, on the committee's recommendation if copyright permission was denied. Now it looks as if some science teachers will appeal that decision. So, we're in for some interesting times. The appeal process includes testimony before the Board of Education who will utimately decide. I'm wondering what the latest discovery of possible lifeforms (single celled organisms) in a Alaskan meteorite from Mars will do to this debate. Fortunately there are many resources, including you, who have contributed information on all sides of the issue, and I am once again reminded that it is not that we lack for information that we struggle, it is lack of critical analysis and evaluation skills. Will keep the net posted. Roberta Ponis Library Services Administrator Jefferson County Public Schools Golden, Colorado rponis@jeffco.k12.co.us