"Teachers should respect and be nonjudgmental about (student) beliefs, and teachers should help students understand that science is an essential way of knowing. Teachers should encourage students to discuss any seeming conflicts with their parents or religious leaders."

The document also defines the weight of theory in scientific context, cites evidence that the universe and life have changed over time, and notes other ways people glean understanding, such as historical analysis, art, religion and philosophy, which rely upon "other ways of knowing, such as emotion and faith.

"While these ways of understanding and creating meaning are important to individuals and society, they are not amenable to scientific investigation and thus not appropriate for inclusion in the science curriculum," the document states.

Buttars believes the document should include new language: "There is not generally accepted agreement in the scientific community or (evidence) that has stood up to scientific scrutiny regarding the evolution of man from any other species."

"That's all they have to do to make this an acceptable article," Buttars said. "I doubt they'll do it."

Moulding believes the document touches on Buttars' concerns.

"Sen. Buttars is concerned about children not having their beliefs questioned in public schools," he said. "If you notice there, we have made it very clear that beliefs students bring from home or church should be respected by teachers teaching evolution concepts in biology."

But the document makes no mention of requiring biology students to take philosophy or humanities class where intelligent design can be discussed, as Buttars has suggested.

Thursday, Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. told reporters he believes intelligent design should not be taught in science classes, and that the time to talk about other concepts comes largely at home or in religious settings.

"If it comes up in sociology or philosophy as differing views on creation, I think that's appropriate," Huntsman said. "But that doesn't happen until college or maybe later in high school."

Buttars has asked to address the school board Friday.

So have a couple of Brigham Young University professors, who may share views opposing Buttars', Burningham said.

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E-mail: jtcook@desnews.com