Objections to Evolution in Science Class??

Here's a letter I received from a biology listserv...

"Hello Evolution Experts:

Update - I need more help.

I'm in genetics now helping kids learn about cells - and of course one needs to discuss the evolution of cells - noticing the similarities between plant cells/animal cells and bacterial cells, etc. The kid who refused to sit in my class during the evolution unit is trying to tell me to stop talking about evolution in the genetics unit. I have explained to him that it is part of the curriculum and it is part of science so that's not an option.

However, I will be meeting with the parents about the amount of evolution in cells - and their concern is how much evolution is in the state standards - and how long a teacher stays on evolution - because they don't understand that evolution pervades all units.

In Missouri we have the state standards, our Grade Level Expectations, etc. The parents want to know how much will I be talking about evolution. My question to you all - there is no time limit on the concepts... so how does one answer the question of how much time do I stay on evolution?

I want to say - that since I am a biologist and this is a science class - we discuss evolution in every unit - from the beginning of the year til the end of the year. My district is very supportive of the teaching of evolution and I have their backing. Attached is a statement that they created (with the help of the district attorney) to sign regarding the teaching of evolution.

I will be meeting with the parents on Monday morning at 7:15am. Wouldn't it be cool if somehow, perhaps a miracle (!) I could help the parents understand their misconceptions about evolution, and help their kid want to understand that understanding evolution does not have to mean that they don't believe in God, etc.....

Thanks for your help, etc. I very much appreciate you!"

My tactful response:
Ask the parents, "Is it possible to learn the English language without vowels?"

Emphasize to them that this concept of evolution is a concept that undermines all of the biological sciences. It is as vital as using vowels in the English language. Just because I have a religious objection to the letter E doesn't mean that I have every right to avoid its use while trying to learn the language. That is a form of educational neglect!

Emphasize to the parents that even if the idea itself is offensive to their religious beliefs, they should understand that it's simply that, an idea. To totally ignore an idea demonstrates ignorance, not education. It doesn't matter how you feel, what matters is what you learned. Explain that science is not about telling them what to believe, it's about taking evidence and making an objective explanation based on physical evidence and observation.

**Oh by the way, if any of you future mothers and fathers are stupid enough to raise your children in this manner, we are not and probably never will be friends. Have a nice day.