文档介绍：Case 4:04-cv-02688-JEJ Document 342 Filed 12/20/2005 Page 1 of 139
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
TAMMY KITZMILLER, et al. : Case No. 04cv2688
:
Plaintiffs : Judge Jones
:
v. :
:
DOVER AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT, et al.,:
:
Defendants. :
MEMORANDUM OPINION
December 20, 2005
INTRODUCTION:
On October 18, 2004, the Defendant Dover Area School Board of Directors
passed by a 6-3 vote the following resolution:
Students will be made aware of gaps/problems in
Darwin’s theory and of other theories of evolution
including, but not limited to, intelligent design.
Note: Origins of Life is not taught.
On November 19, 2004, the Defendant Dover Area School District announced by
press release that, commencing in January 2005, teachers would be required to read
the following statement to students in the ninth grade biology class at Dover High
School:
The Pennsylvania Academic Standards require students
to learn about Darwin’s Theory of Evolution and
1
Case 4:04-cv-02688-JEJ Document 342 Filed 12/20/2005 Page 2 of 139
eventually to take a standardized test of which evolution
is a part.
Because Darwin’s Theory is a theory, it continues to be
tested as new evidence is discovered. The Theory is not
a fact. Gaps in the Theory exist for which there is no
evidence. A theory is defined as a well-tested
explanation that unifies a broad range of observations.
Intelligent Design is an explanation of the origin of life
that differs from Darwin’s view. The reference book, Of
Pandas and People, is available for students who might
be interested in gaining an understanding of what
Intelligent Design actually involves.
With respect to any theory, students are encouraged to
keep an open mind. The school leaves the discussion of
the Origins of Life to individual students and their
families. As a Standards-driven district, class instruction
focuses upon preparing students to