That document says the theory of evolution is a major unifying scientific concept and is appropriately included in the high school biology curriculum.

It acknowledges other "ways of knowing," including arts and faith, which differ from the scientific theory that is based exclusively on observation and empirical evidence. It also says beliefs others bring to the classroom should be respected. "Teachers should encourage students to discuss any seeming conflicts with their parents or religious leaders."

The document came at the behest of board chairman Kim Burningham in light of national controversy. It was created by a group of 22 scientists, professors and community members, including members of the Coalition of Minorities Advisory Committee and the Catholic Diocese.

Buttars, however, proposes an alternative — offering a glimpse into possible legislation.

His "Academic Freedom Act" would "enhance the effectiveness of science education while at the same time ensuring that students are given credible alternative explanations for the origin of life on earth," he said.

"We believe that excluding recent scientific discoveries simply because they run counter to the Darwinian model of origins is not good educational policy," the act says.

Buttars' act would further intelligent design in public schools by explaining it does not inject religion in lessors and that the Darwinian model is accepted by some scientists but rejected by others.

"It is actually a theory, a possible explanation, a single world view — one which is highly vulnerable to close scrutiny and can only survive in an environment in which alternative views are ridiculed, caricatured or, more seriously, ignored completely."

It's uncertain how much support intelligent design legislation would receive on Capitol Hill. Last week, 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."

The State Board of Education took a similar path Friday.

"I personally fervently . . . believe in intelligent design. (But) I believe it needs to be taught in the home and perhaps, religious institutions," board member Bill Colbert said. "It's a personal issue. Even if we try to teach it in a classroom, (I don't think teachers) can do justice to various beliefs that are out there in our communities."

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E-mail: jtcook@desnews.com