The concepts of climate change and American exceptionalism remain in the final draft of new social studies standards for Nebraska schools.

The two issues had been the most contentious as public comment was taken on the proposed standards.

The Lincoln Journal Star reports that the phrase “American exceptionalism” doesn’t appear in the wording on the concept contained in the sixth- through eighth-grade U.S. history standards.

In the sixth- through eighth-grade geography standards, climate change is presented as theory, and the standards suggest students be asked to evaluate the evidence that supports or refutes the theory.

The state Education Board is scheduled to vote Friday on the proposed standards.