The courts have been clear that creationism can’t be taught in public schools because it’s grounded in religion. Creationism takes a literal interpretation of the Bible favored by fundamentalist Christians (but rejected by millions of mainstream, moderate and progressive Christians) and tries to dress it up in a lab coat.

Americans are free to believe whatever they want about our origins. But when fundamentalist religious beliefs attempt to masquerade as science, we must all be concerned. Whether fundamentalists acknowledge it or not, evolution is the cornerstone of many sciences. When we teach it in public school science classes, we not only respect the First Amendment, we also do our young people a big favor.  

In the summer of 1992, Bush unveiled the 'G.I. Bill for Children,' a $500 million outlay of taxpayer money to fund voucher schemes nationwide. At the time, Bush was struggling in the polls against Bill Clinton, and the move was seen as a sop to voters.