Madison Metropolitan School District
Board of Education Policies and Procedures

POLICY	CURRICULUM	3170 Instruction

Controversial Issues

1. The study of and the teaching of controversial issues shall be in an academic atmosphere as free as possible from bias and prejudice.
2. Responsibilities to effect such teaching must be shared by teachers and principals.

PROCEDURE	CURRICULUM	3170 Instruction

Controversial Issues

1. In the study of controversial issues, provision is made in the Madison Metropolitan School District for the pupil to study under competent instruction in an atmosphere as free as possible from bias and prejudice.
2. In the teaching of controversial issues in the Madison Metropolitan School District, the teacher:
   1. Develops a classroom atmosphere in which pupils feel free to express opinions and to challenge ideas;
   2. Teaches respect for the opinions of others and develops skills of critical thinking;
   3. Chooses suitable instructional materials presenting data on varying points of view on issues being discussed;
   4. Demonstrates through interpretations and actions rational methods of arriving at decisions;
   5. Maintains at all times a decent respect for the dignity and worth of each individual;
   6. Undertakes the presentation of a controversial issue to pupils only after careful study and planning;
   7. Confers with the principal or staff specialist if there is doubt regarding the appropriateness of discussing a controversial issue;
   8. Determines whether or not an issue raised by pupils is to be considered at the moment it arises;
   9. Guides discussion toward constructive courses of action available within our framework of values;
   10. Keeps in mind that the teacher's position is as a moderator and participant in the classroom forum; and
   11. Withholds the expression of personal opinion unless asked a direct question.
3. The BUILDING PRINCIPAL shall:
   1. Approve the use of resource persons in the school;
   2. Handle complaints concerning controversial issues; and
   3. Consult with other PRINCIPALS in an effort to be consistent.
4. A citizen of the school community may register a protest and request a change in the handling of a controversial issue to:
   1. The PRINCIPAL; and if satisfaction is not attained, then to
   2. The appropriate ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT; and if satisfaction is not attained, then to
   3. The SUPERINTENDENT; and if satisfaction is not attained, then to
   4. The BOARD.

4/1/02

Last Updated: Wed Jul 19 14:07:54 2006
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