House GOP leaders ask Dayton to veto K-12 social studies standards

Two key House Republican leaders sent DFL Gov. Mark Dayton a letter on Thursday asking him to veto the proposed K-12 standards for social studies.

House Minority Leader Kurt Daudt and Republican lead for the House Education Finance Committee Kelby Woodard both signed the letter. In it they write that "after revieweing the proposed new standards, we do not believe these reflect what Minnesotans expect our students to learn and comprehend in the subject areas of history, government, and economics."

In particular, the Republicans mention concerns about the standards having "virtually no mention of the values of American patriotism." These standards also fail to mention Osama Bin Laden, the wars in Afghanistan and the events of Sept. 11. Daudt and Woodard also have concerns with how the Cold War is addressed and that George Washington is not mentioned until fifth grade civics.

"While we appreciate the work that has been done in revising these standards, we hope you can agree that Minnesota kids deserve better," they wrote.

Click here to Download Veto request letter