Evolution is a touchy subject

And sometimes even touchier than we expect.

The Gradebook randomly called a few schools around Florida this week, to talk to science teachers about their experiences teaching evolution. But after we called Seminole High in Sanford, the PIO for Seminole County schools e-mailed a terse order telling teachers to zip it.

"It has come to our attention that press calls are being made to some schools regarding the question of teaching evolution in our schools," Regina Klaers wrote in the e-mail, which was obtained by The Gradebook. She continued:

"Please remind your staff members, who may be contacted, that if they receive calls they are to be referred to the district office, specifically to my office. This question is a district issue, not one to which individuals should respond. We are aware that the St. Petersburg Times is currently making some random calls.

"Previously, when I was contacted by the media concerning this question, I responded: It is the official position of the administration that is responsible for making curriculum decisions that the science curriculum of Seminole County Public Schools is aligned with the Sunshine State Standards and meets the requirements of law. No discussion beyond that statement is held."

In the interest of full disclosure, The Gradebook was trying to find out whether the hubbub over God and Darwin is as heated an issue in the classroom, where it matters the most, as it is outside of it. Nobody from Seminole High or Seminole County ever called us back, but we were able to speak with teachers elsewhere. Read what they had to say in a St. Petersburg Times story coming soon.

- Ron Matus, state education reporter