Texas State Board of Education member Mavis Best Knight of Dallas was unhappy with the way things went with new social studies curriculum standards in 2010. Instead of listening to educators, the board's social conservatives inserted too many ideological preferences.
"We have not focused on the needs of the students," Knight was quoted as saying at the time. "We have been about conservatism vs. liberalism."But she said the brouhaha, which drew national attention, was valuable in getting more people engaged in what the board does -- set parameters for what gets taught in Texas public schools.Knight, 66, a community volunteer and a Democrat, was first elected in 2002 and seeks another four-year term in District 13. Though changed by last year's remap, the district still covers much of Dallas County plus parts of Fort Worth and southeast Tarrant County.Knight understands the need for independent voices to ensure that the board approves standards and textbooks that are politically and ideologically neutral.Republican candidate S.T. Russell is the father of nine and works in real estate. His concerns about struggling urban schools can better be addressed at the local level.The Star-Telegram Editorial Board recommends Mavis Best Knight for State Board of Education District 13.Have more to add? News tip? Tell us
