SIOUX FALLS, S.D.(WNAX)- The South Dakota Board of Educational Standards is in the middle of their public hearing process for new social studies standards.

Shannon Malone with the state Department of Education asked the board at their meeting last week in Sioux Falls to extend the timeline for implementing the new standards.

Malone said that would give teachers more time to work in the new standards.

Malone says delaying the implementation will hurt students.

The new standards have been controversial with most public comments opposed to the changes.

The Board approved the request for the extended timeline, which would not apply if the new standards are not approved.

The Board will hold two more public hearings next year before deciding.