Trustees OK Boost in Geography Study
Trustees of the Capistrano Unified School District have approved new history and social science standards for grades K-8 that emphasize geography study.
The new district plan is consistent with state standards, but goes further to include performance ratings that provide tools to measure student learning levels, according to district officials.
The trustees also voted to send a letter to the State Standards Commission, questioning the emphasis given in state history standards to Mexican civilizations.
Trustee Peter J. Espinosa said he believes students should spend more time studying the ancient cultures of Mexico.
Teachers who developed the curriculum defended their plan, saying students study other ancient Mexican peoples as much as other ancient civilizations.
Supt. James A. Fleming, in a compromise, suggested the district draft a letter to the State Standards Commission, seeking a review of the issue. The trustees agreed.
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