The chairwoman of the Kansas State Board of Education says it’s uncertain when the panel will vote on proposed science standards for public schools.

The board’s agenda for a meeting Tuesday includes a vote on guidelines that would replace standards adopted in 2007. But Chairwoman Jana Shaver said she isn’t sure the board will want to vote then.

The Independence Republican noted the vote is scheduled shortly after a public comment period. Shaver said members may consider delaying the vote depending upon the comments made.

The Next Generation Science Standards were developed by 26 states, including Kansas. They emphasize hands-on projects and starting instruction about core concepts in kindergarten.

Past debates on science standards in Kansas have centered on teaching evolution. Both the existing and proposed standards are evolution-friendly.